Bernice E. Watkins

Bernice Elizabeth Watkins was called home to be with our Lord and Savior on Monday, February 24, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on May 11, 1947, in Lynchburg, VA to Dorothy and Ellis Eubanks. Her parents later came to reside in Alexandria, VA where she attended Alexandria City Public Schools.

As the eldest of 11 children, she learned early how to nurture, and care for them. She had a passion for cooking, dancing, decorating, and singing. She also loved to tell jokes and laugh.

Bernice met and fell in love with Eddie Watkins Sr. whom she later married on November 12, 1971. This union lasted for 50 years, until the passing of her late husband on December 6, 2021.  From this union they had five magnificent children: Lenora, Eddie Jr., Lisa, Mario, and Steven. She taught her children to “Always put GOD first in everything you do. To be Respectful, Resilient, and to always treat others the way you want to be treated.”

Bernice was employed by the American Red Cross in Alexandria, VA from 1973 until 1993. At that time, she retired and became a stay-at-home wife and mother. She enjoyed spending time with her grand children as well as her great grandchildren.  

Beyond her role as a mother, she was a woman of many interests and passions. She loved music, with an extreme fondness for listening to Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, and The O ’Jays to name a few.  

She enjoyed the Soul Train Line at family gatherings. In her spare time, she liked to travel (but not too far from home). Spending time with her family was everything to her.

Bernice was an amazing mother and sister who was always there when we needed her. She provided wisdom, an abundance of love, and was a friend to many. She was cherished and a respected member of her community in the City of Alexandria. She always saw the good in everyone she encountered. Bernice exemplified how she lived, and how she treated people.

As she has transitioned to her forever resting place, she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, love, laughter, strength, and fond memories, Five children: Lenora Watkins-Glover of Woodbridge, VA; Eddie Watkins Jr. of Upper Marlboro, MD; Lisa Watkins of Alexandria, VA; Mario Watkins of Stafford, VA; and Steven Watkins of Woodbridge, VA. Seven Grandchildren: Jasmine Jones; Marcus Glover Jr.; D’Andre Glover (Marcus Glover Sr); Brittany Watkins; Marquise Smith; and Aliana Watkins.  Four Great Grandchildren: Carmen Bathen; Aaliyah Glover; London Rogers; and Zaire Glover  Siblings: Patricia Eubanks of Dumfries, VA; Octavia Gray (Leonard) of Fort Washington, MD; Richard Eubanks (LaJeune) of Alexandria, VA; Karen Eubanks of Woodbridge, VA; Pamela Eubanks-Mann of Lorton, VA; Wanda Eubanks of Alexandria, VA, and April Eubanks of Alexandria, VA.

One Aunt: Sarah Anne Jones of Manassas, VA, God Daughter: Tamela M. Saunders and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Bernice is preceded in death by her late Husband: Eddie Watkins Sr.; Parents: Dorothy and Ellis Eubanks; Brother: James E. Eubanks Jr. Sisters: Shirley M. Eubanks and Faye V. Eubanks-Blanks

The family will receive friends at the Cunningham Turch Funeral Home, 811 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 on Friday, March 7, 2025 from 10 - 11 AM.  Interment will follow in Quantico National Cemetery.