Elizabeth A. Watkins

Elizabeth A. Watkins, age 67, died on Monday, November 25, 2019 at Ohio Health Hospital in Mansfield. 

Born September 6, 1952 in Shelby to Robert and Mary (Linn) Ellis, she had been a lifelong resident of Shelby.  A 1970 graduate of Shelby High School, Liz had worked as a type punch at the Daily Globe Newspaper for numerous years before working as an aid at Crestwood Care Center and then at Cornells IGA in the Deli.

She was a member of the 1st United Church of Christ and Mansfield's Dulcimer Club. Liz loved nature, animals and was passionate about searching for arrowheads and Native American artifacts. Above all, Liz was the most happy when she was spending time with her beloved grandchildren. She had known many people and will be remembered as a person who genuinely cared for others.

In addition to her father, she is survived by her husband Thomas Watkins, whom she wed on October 3, 1993; two daughters Michelle Johnston of Shelby, and Erin (Matt) Lesseuer of Cincinnati; two grandchildren Paxton and Adilyn Lesseuer; brother Robert (Peggy) Ellis of Olivesburg; two sisters Janet Ellis of Loudonville and Jennifer Ellis of Mansfield; five sisters-in-law; three brothers -in-law; numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

She is preceded in death by her mother Mary in 2017, and Brother William Ellis in 2015.

Liz and her family would like to thank the doctors and nurses who cared for her. A special thank you to the wonderful nurses, volunteers and patients at Ohio Health Shelby Infusion Center. You are all spectacular, loving people; we were blessed to have you in our lives.

Calling hours will not be observed. A private family service will be held at a later date. Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory assisted the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First United Church of Christ at 23 Church St, Shelby, OH 44875.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth A. Watkins, please visit our floral store.