Barbara (Pulliam) Watkins

Barbara Pulliam Watkins, 67, of China Grove, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday morning, June 9, 2021, at Piedmont Medical Center in Rock Hill.

Born February 7, 1954, in Royston, GA, she was a daughter of Loreine Fleeman Pulliam of Kannapolis and the late Henry “Buck” Pulliam.

Earlier in life, Barbara had worked as a fitter for Cannon Mills Plant #7. She later continued her education, graduating from RCCC with honors and earning a degree in early childhood development. Ms.Watkins was much loved as a teacher at St. John’s Lutheran Church daycare. She was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, sister and aunt. She deeply loved all of her family and treasured time spent with them. Gone too soon, Barbara will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew and loved her.

Family members include her sons, Davey Whitley (Yvonne) and Jason “JP” Whitley (Mallory); her sister, Deborah Morris (Roger); grandchildren, Ellory and Jacksyn Whitley; nieces, Chandra Smith (Jeff) and Kindrae Smith (Eric); and her great-nephews, Tyler, Trevor, Aaron and Jacob Smith.

The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00 pm Sunday, June 13th at Whitley’s Funeral Home.  Services to remember and give thanks for Barbara’s life will begin at 2:00 pm in the funeral home chapel, conducted by Tony Fox, Pastor, Command Baptist Church.  Ms.Watkins will be laid to rest at Carolina Memorial Park following the funeral service.

For anyone who would like to send flowers, Barbara’s favorite color was yellow.