Lillabelle M. (Tew) Watkins, 102, of New Bedford died Sunday July 17, 2005 at the Savoy Nursing Center after a brief illness. She was the wife of the late Samuel D. Watkins.
Born in New Bedford, the daughter of the late Charles T. and Harriet Jackson (Stevens) Tew, she lived in New Bedford all of her life.
She was a member of the Union Baptist Church, where she served as a deaconess and missionary.
Mrs. Watkins was formerly employed as a housekeeper in private homes. Many years ago, she worked at the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.
She had been a volunteer for the American Red Cross.
Survivors include many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
She was the mother of the late Robert S. Watkins and Benjamin F. Watkins and the sister of the late Edna Tew, Rose Tew, Charles Tew, Arthur Tew, Chester Tew, and Earl Tew.
Her Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday July 20, 2005 at 12 Noon in the Union Baptist Church, 109 Court St., New Bedford. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery. Viewing at the Union Baptist Church Wednesday morning from 10-12 Noon.