Frances Watkins

Frances Gardner Watkins, age 89, of Orem, passed away October 7, 2019 at the Utah Valley Hospital in Provo, Utah. She was born May 16, 1930 in Salem, Utah a daughter of Frank Lynn and Anna Marie (Abildskov) Gardner.

She was raised in Salem, attended Spanish Fork High School and graduated from BYU with a BS Degree.

Frances married Richard Watkins on August 8, 1956 in the Salt Lake City Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Together they were blessed with two children; Lisa (Randy) Mower and Richard (Tonya) Lynn Watkins.

She is survived by her daughter Lisa and son-in-law Randy as well as her 3 grandchildren Thomas (Jocelyn) Mower, Madison Mower, and Haylee Watkins. Frances was preceded in death by her sweetheart Richard, her son Richard Lynn, grandson Hayden Mower as well as her 2 siblings Russell and Brent Gardner.

Frances and Richard were the 15th and 16th missionaries to serve in the Fiji Mission when the area was first opened. Frances lovingly supported Richard as he served as Bishop of the Orem 19th Ward.

She loved her family more than anything in this life. She had such a love of life and had many friends who adored her and her beautiful smile and quick wit. Frances enjoyed going to the movies, lunch, shopping, attending the Temple every Monday at 4:30 A.M. with ward members and friends. She also made the best hot rolls and gave them away with love.

Frances was gifted at crafts and loved quilting, knitting, embroidery, cross stitch and making baby blankets. For over 20 years she lovingly volunteered her time as a Pink Lady at the Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo.  She worked at the BYU book store as a cashier for many years, and would have students wait in line specifically for her.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. at the Hillcrest 8th Ward Chapel, 1035 South 800 East in Orem. A visitation will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. prior to the services at the Ward Chapel. Interment will be held at the Salem City Cemetery, Salem, Utah. Condolences and memories may be shared on this page.