Patricia J. Watkins

Mrs. Patricia Josephine (Grilletta) Watkins, age 95, returned to God on January 21, 2021 at her home in Rocklin, California. She was born on April 28, 1925 in New Orleans, Louisiana; one of eleven children to Fred Grilletta and Virginia Rouse. She graduated high school at 16 years old after having skipped two grades and then completed a 2-year business school program in 1 year graduating in 1940. During WWII in New Orleans, she met a navy seaman (Francis “Frank” Watkins) who was set up as her blind date by her cousin Lena. Afterward, they corresponded throughout the war and later married in 1945 in Long Beach, California. Together with her soulmate she raised four children in San Jose, California. After the children were on their own, she re-started her own career as a bank teller and ultimately becoming a loan officer. Later in life, Frank and Patricia, “Pat” to her friends, retired to Grass Valley, California. There she became an active member of Saint Patrick's Catholic Church, volunteering at St. Patrick's Food Bank and the Catholic Ladies Guild. She also became a volunteer accountant at the Grass Valley Senior Center. As loyal square-dancers, Pat and Frank formed many enduring friendships. She was an avid contract bridge player, reaching the rank of master. She was an extraordinary cook and will be especially remembered for her Christmas Eve Cioppino, Sicilian Christmas fig cookies (“cuccidati”) and fruitcake. As a testament to their love for one another, Frank and Pat celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary on October 17, 2020. Pat loved her family and that love was felt by all. She will be fondly missed by her loving husband Francis Watkins of Rocklin, her sister Grace Conaway of Baton Rouge, LA, her children, Marsha Watkins of Lincoln, CA, Raymond Watkins of Lincoln, CA and Michael Watkins of Rome, Italy. She is preceded in death by her daughter Susan Huestis. She will be lovingly remembered by her five grandchildren, Charles Washburn, Chris Watkins, Stephanie Watkins, Eddie Huestis, Claire Marie Huestis, and her eight great grandchildren, Lauren Washburn, Jennifer Washburn, Austin Watkins, Brady Watkins, Blake Watkins, Elliot Huestis, Emmett Huestis and Easton Huestis. There will be a Celebration of Life service on 2/2/2021 held at 1pm. She will be laid to rest at Rocklin Cemetery 4090 Kannansto St, Rocklin CA. 95677 Grave 95-96

Patricia J. Watkins

April 28, 1925 - January 21, 2021