Mildred Watkins Wilson was born on St. Patrick’s Day in 1918 in Saulsbury, Tennessee to the late Dr. Thaddeus Earl Watkins and Nettie Rush Watkins. She was the wife of the late Dr. David T. Wilson, Sr. She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Earline Watkins and Esther Watkins and a brother, Thaddeus Earl Watkins, Jr.
Mildred passed away surrounded by her loving family and friends on Wednesday, December 4, 2013 at her residence in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, on Friday, December 13, 2013, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. The funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2013 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Louisville with Father Augustine Palimattam officiating. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.
A longtime resident of Louisville, Mildred was known for her Southern hospitality. Whether you stayed at Mildred’s home for an extended visit or just “dropped in,” she welcomed you with open arms and served wonderful meals. Mildred attended football games at Ole Miss for over 50 years. An excellent cook, she was known to have one of the best tailgates around.
An active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Mildred served and worshipped with her faith community. In 1947, she co-signed the bank note for the building of the church. Before Sacred Heart was built, members of the church celebrated mass in Mildred’s home. She was heavily involved in club work and civic activities, most notably the March of Dimes.
Mildred is survived by her son, David Wilson, Jr., of Louisville, and daughter, Carol Wilson Kramer (Fred) of St. Louis, Missouri; three grandchildren: John Kramer (Kim) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Katie Kramer Jaroch (Jay) of Santa Monica, California; and Kevin Kramer of St. Louis, Missouri. Mildred also has one great-grandson, Wilson Alexander Jaroch of Santa Monica; a sister-in law, Louise Watkins of Nashville, Tennessee and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and friends.
Mildred loved her family, parties, and good times. With a personality larger than life, she will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and beautiful smile.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Sam Suttle, the nurses and staff of Quality Hospice, and Mildred’s loving caregivers, Charlene Webb, Alice Saddler, Lila Yates, and Sharon Casey.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be given to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, c/o Barbara Sturbaum, 401 Spring Street, Louisville, MS 39339 or to a charity of your choice. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family by signing the guestbook at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.
