Wanda Olivia Watkins left this earthly realm and went home to be with the Lord on August 23rd, 2024. Wanda was born on September 7th, 1946, in Hagerstown, Maryland to Russell Weaver and Ethel Raut (Henson). Wanda will be greatly missed by all of those embraced by her loving light.

Wanda grew up in Hagerstown, Maryland, and attended school at North Hagerstown High School until she had to leave before graduating. She was hardworking, always devout in her faith and determination. She persevered through life's struggles and eventually went back to school in her adult life to study for and obtain her high school diploma. Wanda enjoyed studying English, Writing, and Art, and would often use those skills while volunteering at her local church's Sunday School or mentoring her grandchildren. Wanda was the mother of two sons; Jeff, who passed away unexpectedly in infancy, and William Watkins of Williamsport, Maryland, whom she raised with her husband, Franklin Watkins.

Wanda met the love of her life, Franklin Watkins, in 1966. They lived together in Hagerstown and enjoyed taking trips to Ocean City, Maryland, where they'd walk the entire boardwalk together, and according to Frank, despite being severely sunburnt and resembling lobsters. They were married in March of 1968, in a small ceremony at her uncle's house, who was the officiating preacher. Like Frank, Wanda had an unmatched love for animals of all kinds. Wanda and Frank adopted many animals throughout the years, namely Spencer, their large, doe-eyed Dalmatian, Foxy Lady, their feisty chow-mix, and their recent feline companion, Angel Baby. One of Wanda's favorite pastimes was birdwatching, specifically watching the "hummies," and birds of all shapes and sizes that would visit their many outdoor feeders.

In addition, Wanda competitively loved mushroom hunting, fishing, playing (and winning) checkers, and racing. She would often accompany her husband and son to the races at Hagerstown Speedway, where her son, William Watkins, raced the dirt track, and assisted Frank with fixing up race cars.

Wanda was a loving mother-in-law to her son's wife, Cathy Watkins of Williamsport, Maryland, and the two had a caring and enduring friendship throughout the years. She was a devoted grandmother to her two grandchildren, Brittani Watkins and Kati Kimble, both of Williamsport, Maryland. She would often have them over for sleepovers on the weekends, always taking them on adventures, such as to the City Park to feed the countless ducks, swans, and squirrels, Hagerstown Speedway for the races, participating in local go-kart racing, Antietam Battlefield for History lessons, or the local video store for a movie night. Wanda loved film, especially Hollywood classics from the 1930s and 40s, and instilled a great love for cinema in her son and grandchildren.

Frank and Wanda often engaged with many members of the Williamsport community, where they have made lifelong friends. They loved to frequent Wolfe's on the square in Williamsport, Ernst Market near Clear Spring, Ronnie Byers' shop in downtown Williamsport, the local Dollar General, and more, where they enjoyed talking with the workers, often proudly introducing their granddaughters in the process. Wanda was a kind and loving soul, who enjoyed making others smile and brightening their day. She saw the best in everyone and would do anything in her ability to help anyone in need. She epitomized the golden rule of life, do unto others as you would have them do unto you, which was always rooted in kindness, empathy, and love.

Wanda had a strong work ethic, often going above and beyond to work at her fullest potential. Wanda worked at London Town Manufacturing for nearly twenty years, and was a long-time beloved co-worker at Staples Warehouse, Byron Tannery, Howard Johnson's Hotel, and a caregiver at Homewood and other local nursing homes.

Wanda is survived by her husband of 56 years, Franklin Watkins; her son, William Watkins; her daughter-in-law, Cathy Watkins; granddaughter, Brittani Watkins (Barry Moazami); granddaughter, Kati Kimble (Skylar Kimble); great-grandsons, Trevor Kimble and Wesley Kimble, and extended family members.

In addition to her parents, Russell Weaver and Ethel Raut (Henson), she was predeceased by her son, Jeff, and father-in-law, Hari Raut.

The memorial will be private and held by close family and friends to honor the beautiful soul of Wanda Olivia Watkins.