WORCESTETER-Her wings were ready but our hearts were not. Nevertheless, God called Evangelist Missionary Shirley Ann Watkins home on Tuesday, September 29th, 2026.

She was born August 4, 1954, in Wintergarden, FL, a daughter of the late Alzuer (Rome) Watkins and Hubert Watkins. Throughout her beautiful 72-year journey she touched countless lives with her spiritual gifts, compassion, humor, an exemplary strength of perseverance.

She dedicated her life to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout her community and the world with unwavering faith, humility, and compassion. She was an anointed Evangelist and Missionary whose words came from a heart completely devoted to God. She was an original member of Mt. Sinai Church of God and Christ and worked tirelessly to successfully expand the ministry. Her faith was genuine, her love was sincere, and her greatest desire was to see others come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Shirley was the proud and loving mother of her only child and son Seth A. Pitts – whom she lived her life for. She loved her grandchildren Luna and Lorenzo Pitts, who meant everything to her. She loved taking care of them, having sleepovers, showing up for them, cheering them on, and being present for every moment possible. She will forever be remembered as the best grandma in the world. She loved thimbles, and collected meaningful pieces over the years that she proudly displayed in her home. Shirley also enjoyed cooking, traveling, and fishing. She loved making memories, spending time with family, and sharing adventures and laughs with the people she loved.

Shirley is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Seth A. Pitts and Dr. Jessica L. Pitts of Worcester, MA, as well as her nephew, and surrogate son, Ras Hazard and wife Tonya (Worcester, MA). She is also survived by her two brothers, Hubert Watkins Jr. and wife Susan (Worcester, MA), Tommy Watkins (Sarasota, FL), and two sisters Canella (Watkins) Ford and husband Gourley (Ruther Glen, VA), and Laura (Watkins) Long and husband Rex (Worcester, MA). In addition to her parents, Shirley is predeceased by her sister Vianne (Watkins) Hazard and her husband Eugene Hazard who went home to be with the Lord.

A  Celebration of Life will be held Friday, October 9 at 11am in Grace Christian Center, 126 Elm St., Worcester. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mount Sinai Church of God in Christ, 63 Wellington Street, Worcester, 01610.