Obituary for Lila “Nana” Watkins

With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Lila “Nana” Watkins, who left us on May 23, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on July 25, 1929, Lila grew up in a ranch near Roswell, NM, before moving to Portales, where she graduated high school and began her career in retail. Lila was known for her vibrant spirit and her warm smile that could light up any room.

After a fulfilling career, Lila spent her retirement years with her beloved husband, Donald in Farwell, TX, where she embraced the joys of gardening, canning, and nurturing her beautiful flowers. Her love for country western dancing brought her joy and laughter, adding a little rhythm to her life. She made countless memories at the senior citizens centers, where she enjoyed connecting with friends old and new.

Lila touched the lives of many, and her kind-hearted nature will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her daughters, Tresban Giron and husband Orlando of Santa Fe, NM, Tracy Velasquez and husband Bert of Amarillo, TX; step-daughters, Sandy Howard and husband Grubb of Clovis, NM and Jill Bonner of Amarillo, TX; sons, Rory Howard of The Colony, TX and Billy Howard and wife Brenda of Talihina, OK; step-son, Scott Watkins of Clovis, NM; daughter-in-law, Nikki Howard of Portales, NM; 21 grandchildren and 45 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Watkins; son, Rocky Howard; sisters, Vivian Fox, Adygene DePaulo, Claytie Cole and Madge Lassiter; brother, Clint Garrett and her parents, Walter and Teresa Garrett.

Rest in peace, Lila. You’ve danced your last dance on Earth, but the music will live on in our hearts.