SHIRLEY LEE WATKINS

MUSCATINE, IA – Shirley Watkins peacefully departed on July 24, 2026, at her country home at Lutheran Living in Muscatine, Iowa. Born on December 9, 1931, in Kirksville, Missouri, Shirley was the daughter of Archie and Lemah Truitt. Her life was full of family and friends.

Shirley grew up in Kirksville, Missouri, graduated from Kirksville High School and furthered her education at Northeast Missouri State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. It was in college that she met Rick Watkins. They married on February 27, 1951, and shared a beautiful partnership.

They spent 15 years in Toledo, Iowa as the kids grew older before moving to Muscatine Iowa in 1974.

Together, Shirley and Rick embarked on many adventures, trips, and created treasured memories during their twenty winters spent in Casa Grande, Arizona. Their hearts were always open to their children, grandchildren, and to the friends they made along the way.

Shirley loved her family. She is survived by her children, Terri Baker, Kent Watkins, Pam Pulliam and their spouses Don, Maxine, and Bob, who were her pride and joy. Her legacy continues through her 10 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, each carrying forward a piece of her spirit.

She did her crossword puzzles in ink and loved to beat the buzzer in Jeopardy! She was a long-time member of the Presbyterian Church in Muscatine, was actively involved in the Muscatine General Federation of Women's Phoenix Club, several book clubs, and cherished her years with her bridge group.

Shirley was predeceased by her beloved husband, Rick and daughter Patti.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Muscatine Lutheran assisted living, whose dedication and kindness provided comfort to Shirley in her final year.

There will be no services at this time. The Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Shirley's memory to consider a donation to a charity of their choice. Online condolences: www.wittichfuneralhome.com.

As we remember Shirley, let us celebrate a life lived long and well, filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering dedication to those she held dear. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her.