Sena Lou (Woodruff) Watkins, 84, was born Aug. 16, 1925, in Mt. Washington, MO, the oldest child of John William and Eunice Mae Woodruff. She departed this life on June 19, 2010, to be with her Lord and Savior.
Sena Lou moved to El Dorado Springs when she was eight. She attended school in El Dorado Springs and graduated in 1943.
She received her nursing license in 1953. Sena Lou worked many years with Dr. Magee and loved telling everyone about how nursing was in the “old days.” She was recognized by the Missouri State Board of Nursing for over 50 years of service. She worked until November 2009, when her health would not allow her to continue.
On Nov. 5, 1950, she married the love of her life, Raymond Carl Watkins. To this union one son was born, William “Scott” Watkins Sr.
Sena Lou was a very dedicated mother, nurse, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a very caring person, always helping others when she could. When it came to being grandma, she was the best. Her words of wisdom to other grandmothers,”“Feed your grandchildren homemade chicken noodle soup. Also, take your kids to Annie’s after school.” One of her favorite things to do with her great-grandchildren was to take them on the golf cart to see the moos (cows).
Sena Lou was an active member of the Park Street Christian Church for many years. She was baptized at the First Christian Church in El Dorado Springs. In her younger years, she was the song leader. She was named El Dorado Springs Citizen of the Year in the early 1980’s. Sena Lou was recognized by the Vernon County Youth Fair for over 35 years of volunteer service. She was a member of the Royal Neighbors.
Preceding Sena Lou in death were her husband, Raymond; her parents; and one grandson, William Scott “Scotty” Watkins Jr.
She is survived by her son, Scott Watkins and wife, Barbara - El Dorado Springs; four grandchildren - Linda Hallam and husband, Tristan - Belton, Brandon Watkins and wife, Tessie - El Dorado Springs, Jessica Ulrich and husband, Tustin - Liberal, and Jeremy Watkins and wife, Jamie - Alba; four great-grandchildren - Kalei Jo Hallam, Chloe Faith Ulrich, Lanie Ann Watkins and Braxton Ray Hallam; one brother, John Woodruff - Bellville, KS; and numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and other family members and friends. Her family and friends were blessed by her presence and will treasure her memory always.
Services were held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 23, at the Park Street Christian Church with Steve Bond officiating. Music selections were provided by her grandchildren and Peggy Carter. Interment followed in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.
Pallbearers were - Brandon Watkins, Jeremy Watkins, Tustin Ulrich, Tristan Hallam, Kenny Watkins, Dennis Watkins and John Woodruff. Honorary pallbearers were - Richard Watkins, Melvin Ware, J.D. Redburn, Ken Wood and Gene Starkey.
Memorial donations may be made to Park Street Christian Church.
