Linda Watkins

Linda Lou Gill Watkins, 76 of Mineral Wells, Texas, met her Heavenly Father on Saturday, April 29th, 2017. Linda was born June 15, 1940 in Mineral Wells, the daughter of Lizzie Glidewell and Doc Gill and the beloved little sister to Betty Gill Rogers. Linda graduated Mineral Wells High School in 1959 hoping to pursue her love of music. With a passion for "country" living and all that includes, it was only natural that her beautiful singing voice and her affection for a country lifestyle would lead her to consider a career in country music. In her youth, she competed in vocal competitions and performed at the Big D Jamboree. It was there she had the chance to sing with a number of country music greats, including Red Foley and Willie Nelson. Mr. Foley noticed a great talent in Linda and invited her to tour with him, but at her Father's wishes, her career in country music was not to be. Linda had a true heart for children and was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. But being "Mama" to Teresa, Lora & James was her destiny and her numerous grand-children and great grand-children are among her greatest achievements. She was "Nana" to every child that entered her home, whether related or not. Linda was blessed to share her later years with her loving companion, Fritz 'Sonny' Ballenger. The pair attended Progress elementary school together as children & were both graduates of the class of '59. Their lives took separate paths after high school, but the two remained friends and in 2006, they rekindled their friendship over a home cooked meal. That evening led to eleven beautiful years. Linda has reunited in Heaven with her mother Lizzie, father Doc, sister Betty, and daughter Tina Lou Coulter. She will be lovingly remembered by her companion Fritz Ballenger, daughter Teresa Valley and Jim Blue, daughter Lora and Arthur James, son James 'Hoss' White and wife Tabitha; Grandchildren: Chisum and Riggin Valley, Colt and Zack Shires, Taggar Bridges, Lacey Noe, Bella and Ransom White; and Great-grandchildren: Jimmy, Penny, Cutter, Rainy, KC, Eli, Braxton, Cash and Mackenzie. A celebration of her life will be held 2:00 pm, Thursday, May 4th, 2017 at Baum Carlock Funeral Home with Brother Roger Keck of the Palo Pinto Cowboy Church officiating. The family will accept visitors beginning at 1:00pm prior to the funeral. Burial to follow at the Hittson Cemetery.