Martha Bernice Watkins, 76, of Centralia passed away Sunday, January 26, 2025, at St. Louis University Hospital in St. Louis, MO.
She was born on August 29, 1948, the daughter of Jewell Ditto and Arizona Schafer in East Prairie, MO. She married Bobby Lee Grimes in Imperial, MO in 1963 and he preceded her in death on January 7, 2016. She married Larry Watkins on November 17, 2017, at the Jefferson County Courthouse and he survives her in Centralia.
Along with her husband, Larry, survivors include her sons, Jerry Grimes (Christine) of St. Louis, and Jeffrey Grimes (Juanita) of Radom; grandchildren, Jennifer Senn, Justin Grimes, Brandon Grimes, Caleb Grimes, Nathan Grimes, Noah Grimes, Nickolas Grimes, Renee Penn, Brittany Mitchell, Bryan Grimes, and Bobby Grimes; sister, Pansy Patton of Jefferson City; several great-grandchildren; and extended family members, and friends.
Along with her husband, Bobby Lee Grimes, Martha was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Steven Ditto; and her son, William Lee Grimes.
Martha was proud to be able to provide a home where her family could grow under her love and care. She was a true hero to her sons, who loved and appreciated her. She was a great cook and an amazing baker, and everyone looked forward to eating some of her delicious peach cobbler and coleslaw. Martha always made sure everyone had plenty to eat and she provided all kinds of side dishes for family get-togethers. She loved taking nature walks, watching the birds and ducks by the lake, and going to orchards to get some of her favorite peaches. Martha was the queen of finding treasures at Goodwill and if Heaven has rummage sales, she will be set for sure. Martha was a wonderful, caring wife, mother, grandmother, and sister who will be deeply missed.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 14, 2025, at Peaceful Valley Cemetery in Odin. Memorials may be made in Martha’s honor to the family’s wishes. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Odin is privileged to be assisting the family of Martha Watkins with arrangements. Online condolences and memories of Martha may be shared with the family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
