Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
Mary Ann Watkins, 71, of Vero Beach, FL passed away January 10, 2026. She was born in St. Louis, adopted at age 2, and raised by O.B. and Mary Ann Harris in Sullivan, IN. At age 20, she married Terry Watkins and moved to Midland, MI where she completed training as a registered nurse and worked 29 years for the Mid-Michigan Hospital system.
Mary Ann was a member of Vero Christian Church, and enjoyed social events, travel, eating out, shopping, music, games/cards and long walks.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Survivors include her husband, her children Lindsey (Brent) Grenda and Sara (Matthew) Garrett; grandchildren Addison and Julianne Hamberg and Natalie, Carmelo and Conner Grenda; and siblings Emily Harris, Rosemarie (Tom) Robson and John (Ronda) Harris.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at Vero Christion Church in late January.
In lieu of flowers, please consider gifts to: Vero Christian Church, 3250 9th St SW, Vero Beach, FL 32968, or Brennity of Vero Memory Care Staff, 7955 16th Manor, Vero Beach, FL 32966 or VNA & Hospice Foundation, 920 37th Place, #101, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2026 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Gary L. Wackler - Friend
January 12, 2026, 10:52 pm
Peace and comfort to the family. I was blessed to know Mary Ann and her family, meeting them firstly as I served as their minister in Midland, Michigan. Mary Ann was always full of energy and loved her husband and family. She was noticed when she entered the room and will be missed now as she is in Jesus’ care and has a “room” prepared just for her. I bet she has already made some plans to redecorate
Tom and Cookie Sanders - Friends
January 13, 2026, 12:11 am
She was a lovely beautiful lady.
Nate Wilkerson
January 13, 2026, 2:12 am
TW, Dawn and I are praying for you and your family. Mary Ann always had a smile on her face and shared the love and joy of the Lord with everyone.
Steve and Cathy Jolliff - Friend
January 13, 2026, 3:00 am
Steve and I want to express our deepest condolences to Terry, Sara, Lindsey, and all of the family! You are in our thoughts and prayers during this time of loss. May God comfort each of you and hold you tenderly in his loving arms.
Charles McMahan - lifelong friend
January 13, 2026, 4:10 am
I’m so sorry to learn of Mary Ann’s passing. May you be comforted by your good memories. Thanks for being an important part of my special memories. Prayer sent for comfort during this difficult and sad time. Your lifelong friend, Charles McMahan
Sylvia and Graham Fry - Friend
January 13, 2026, 6:52 pm
So sorry to hear about Marianne’s passing . Happy memories of your time spent in Dublin Ireland as our families grew up ! Will be praying for you all at this time for Gods comfort and peace .
Gary & Luanne Cech - Friends
January 13, 2026, 7:16 pm
To TW, girls and Families. Our heart felt condolences to you in hearing about Mary Ann’s promotion to Glory. She was such a bright light and always seemed to have a joyful smile. We so appreciated being involved in the ministry at MCC. Grateful for the Watkins family and will be keeping you in our prayers. How comforting to KNOW where she is… she is with Jesus! ❤️ May God hold you close.
Deborah Crowdy - Friend
January 14, 2026, 2:09 am
Mary Ann’s big, beautiful eyes would light up with such welcome at meeting friends and strangers. She loved to play cards and no one was more fun to be with. She also had a deep spiritual side and a love of Christ. We have not been able to share much time with Mary Ann in recent years, but we still grieve the loss of such a delightful friend.
Ann Sytsma - Family Friend
January 15, 2026, 5:36 pm
I will always remember Mary Ann as the choreographer of the the Smith Family Singers. We had long rehearsals and her watchful eye told us what looked good and what did not. I remember family nights of playing cards and lots of laughter. She will be missed. Terry, Sarah, Lindsey and families, know that you are being lifted up in prayer.
The Wildin’s - Friend
January 16, 2026, 6:57 pm
Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family as you mourn the loss of Mary Ann.
Missy Boatright - Friend
January 17, 2026, 2:48 am
Mary Ann was the life of the party. She always shared the joy of the Lord with everyone that crossed her path. The Lord already showed us while she was still here how we would miss the real “Chatty Kathy” Mary Ann. I miss her happy and lively personality. Praise God she is her lovely self in heaven. I am sorry I wasn’t able to deal with what the stroke did to her. I love you, Mary Ann. Enjoy the party at your banqueting feast. His banner over you is Love!