Billie Michelle Vernon Watkins

Billie Michelle Vernon Watkins, age 44, of Clay City, KY and formerly of Lowell passed away Monday July 25, 2011 at her residence.

She was a native of Gaston County and the daughter of the late William and Lena Stephenson Vernon.

Mrs. Watkins is survived be her husband Joey Watkins; three daughters, Kristina Vernon of Newport Richey, FL, Pattie Michelle Franklin and husband Chris of Gatlinburg, TN, Brandii Lynn Austin and husband R.J. of Clay City, KY; a brother Troy Watson of Bakersville; four sisters Joyce Watson of West Palm Beach, FL, Judy Wendt and Janice Hewell both of Stanley, and Dena Davis of Kings Mountain; eight grandchildren; and special friend, Neil Raper.

Mrs. Watkins was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Michael Watson, Timothy Watson; a sister Cheri Watson and granddaughter, Abbigail Booth.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Friday at the Colonial Chapel of Carothers Funeral Home in Gastonia with the Rev. Randy Funderburk officiating.

Burial will follow at Gaston Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Thursday at the Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made at: www.carothersfuneralhomegastonia.com:

Carothers Funeral Home, Gastonia is serving the Watkins family.