Rose Emma Watkins

Rose Emma Watkins, 82, passed away Sunday, December 20, 2020, at her residence in Hot Springs County after a bout with cancer.

Born June 25, 1938, in Grand Junction, Colo., she was one of five children of Edward and Ruth (Michels) Voss. After high school she attended Mesa College earning an Associate Degree in Business Administration.

On March 20, 1960, she married Duane W. Watkins in Grand Junction. The couple moved to Laramie, Wyo., in 1964 and to Thermopolis in the early 70s where Rose was actively involved in agriculture education. 

For 50 years Rose was a school bus driver and also did some substitute teaching. She was an announcer at the Wyoming State Fair for 50 years. In her love of children, she was heavily involved in 4-H and FFA. She was a member of Holy Trinity Church and Eastern Star Vesper Chapter 19. An assertive woman she was sympathetic, compassionate and cared about the community and its children.

She is survived by her husband, Duane of Thermopolis; daughters, Vivian (Curtis) Rigsby of Thorton, Colo., and Pam Watkins of Thermopolis; brother, Dan (Barbara) Voss of Grand Junction; grandchildren, Meagan, Henry, Shanea, Sarah and Daisy; and two great-grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers; and son, Joe.

Graveside services will be held January 4, 2021, at 2 p.m. at Highlands Cemetery in Meeker, Colo.

Mortimore Funeral Home is assisting the family.  Online messages may be offered at http://www.mortfh.com