Nellie Lavaun Watkins age 72 of Burgaw died Friday March 14, 2014 at New Hanover Reg. Med. Center. She was born February 24, 1942 in Pender County daughter of the late Pearlie and Olie Lambert Gray Watkins Sr.

Nellie was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, and the longest serving employee of Pender County working for over 40 years.

She is survived by her adopted daughter Donna Gray Watkins Anderson of Atkinson; two grandchildren, Christopher and Noah Anderson; four brothers, John David Watkins and wife Jeronia of Burgaw, Pearlie B. Watkins Jr. and wife Louise of Wilmington, Albert D. Watkins of Burgaw, Joseph R. Watkins and wife Terry Lynn of Burgaw; a special niece and nephews; and two very special friends Jenny Beaver, and W C Talbott.

The family will receive friends Monday March 17, 2014 5-7:00pm and the funeral service will follow at 7:00pm all at Harrell's Funeral Home. Bishop Brian Pace will officiate. A private burial will be Tuesday at Rockfish Memorial Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude's Hospital www.stjude.org.