M. Jean Watkins 1936-2024 Hutchinson, Kan.
By NewsPress Now
HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Margaret Jean Watkins, 88, of Hutchinson, Kansas, died Sept. 2, 2024, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. She was born May 23, 1936, in rural Nodaway County, Missouri, to James Elden and Margaret Elaine (Damon) Huls.
Known as Jean to all her family and friends, she graduated from Clearmont High School, Clearmont, Missouri, Missouri Western State University, St. Joseph, and received her master’s degree as a reading specialist from Wichita State University. Jean retired from Avenue A School, after 20 years of service as a 5th and 6th grade teacher. Overall, her teaching career spanned over 50 years. Jean enjoyed staying busy, especially if it meant shopping, whether on-line or in person, traveling, (she visited all 50 states), going on cruises, and riding her motorcycle.
On June 7, 1971, she married the love of her live, Martin V. Watkins, in Mami, Oklahoma. He died June 24, 2009, after they shared 38 years of marriage.
Jean is survived by: children, Donna Budd, of Kansas City, Missouri, Steven Hull (Karen), of Chester, Virginia, Kelly Hull (Cheryl), of Nags Head, North Carolina, Wendy Turley (James), and Tina Self (Kevin), all of Hutchinson; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by: her parents; son-in-law, Jim Budd; and half-brother, Dean Huls.
A private gathering will be held. Inurnment will take place in Colorado.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Angels Care Home Health or Hospice House, Hutchinson, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.
