WILMINGTON — In Loving Memory of Mary Christine Fayle Watkins
Chris Watkins, 77, of Wilmington NC, is smiling at home with her heavenly father. She was at peace when she transitioned from this world into the next at 4:50 a.m. on July 17th, 2019.
Chris Watkins was a true divine light of creation, affecting countless lives during her life. Anyone that ever met or knew Chris Watkins would say that she had the warmest, most vibrant personality combined with an incredible smile.
When talking with Chris, there was authenticity so you could let your guard down and connect deeply. Chris’ voice had a beautiful tone that would speak directly to your soul, like a motherly, angelic sound. You would feel strangely comfortable telling her things that were weighing on your heart. Even small moments shared with Chris Watkins would often change people for life because of her profound ability to share divine thoughts of God, Love and Truth.
Chris Watkins was a Loving Grandmother, Devoted Mother, Nurturing Mother-in-Law, Loyal Sister, Trusted Aunt, and Forever Best Friend.
“Mary Chris” Fayle was born in Tournapull, Georgia. Her proud parents William ”Bill” Fayle and Lucille “Lucy” May Erickson Fayle. Chris had two siblings, Patricia Ann “Patty” Fayle Sowder and William “Bill” Fayle II.
Chris’ childhood and formative years were spent in Burlington, North Carolina. Chris graduated from Walter Williams High School in 1960. She then went on to attend Richmond Professional Institute (VCU) and graduated with a degree in fine arts. Chris met wonderful people during her time in college, and they remained close friends for the rest of their lives. Her time at Richmond Professional Institute was important as it shaped Chris’ love of acting, theatre and the arts.
During her professional career, Chris was a TV writer/producer, radio personality, actress and songwriter. She loved being involved in all aspects of the entertainment industry and met many wonderful people along the way. Many knew her locally for her talk radio show and television work, but Chris had achieved national success in the acting and music business early in her career.
One great story from Chris’ past was when Michael Jackson himself played a prank on her. While visiting the studio where “Thriller” was being recorded, Jackson asked Chris to retrieve a black nylon bag for him. Chris obliged, unaware of the huge boa constrictor that was inside. When she opened the bag, Chris let out the BIGGEST scream, followed by uncontrollable laughter. Everyone in the studio knew what was in that bag, except for Chris. Seeing her face afterwards, Jackson gave her a big hug and apologized. She wasn’t mad for long.
Chris loved all cultures and traveled the world. Her last trip was to The Republic of South Korea with all her extended family. The culture, beauty and cuisine made it an ideal experience, her favorite place being Jeju-Do Island. Her other all time favorites were Portugal and France.
Chris had one daughter and one son. Katherine Nicole Watkins. “Nicole” was born October 28th, 1968. Nicole’s life was unfortunately cut short as an infant. She suffered a tragic fall at the family’s home in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. Nicole passed on July 27th, 1969, preceding her mother Chris by almost 50 years to the day.
Douglas “Hunter” Watkins resides in Wilmington, North Carolina with his wife Yu Kyung “Yuki” Watkins. They have been married 27 years and have one daughter, Abigail Brooklyn Watkins.
Chris is also survived by her beloved niece and nephews and their extended families: Jennifer Ann Elizabeth Sowder and Dave Mullen from Charlottesville, Virginia; W. “Eric” A. Sowder, his wife Anita, and their three children, William, Grace and Ruby from Greensboro, North Carolina; Shawn Fayle from Raleigh, North Carolina; Kelly Fayle and his son Kelvis Fayle from Graham, North Carolina.
Throughout her life, Chris learned how to turn personal tragedy into triumph. She became a grief counselor, helping others find peace after loss. She gave her life to God, knowing that his divine love would heal the tremendous void in her heart after losing Nicole.
God provided comfort for Chris to know that her daughter was safe in his arms, where they have been joyously reunited.
Matthew 19:26
