Alice Mae Watkins-Watson, a proud mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Gainesville, Georgia surrounded by her loved ones, on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
She was born on a farm in Oglethorpe County to Mack and Emma (Dowdy) Watkins on September 19, 1928. Until her death, she lived a life marked by strength, independence, and a deep love for family and friends.
Alice Mae was a devoted member of Antioch Baptist Church for nearly seven decades. She was employed by Swift & Co. and retired after over 20 years. Known affectionately to everyone as “Mae Mae,” she loved life and believed in the power of strengthening community through celebration.
Alice Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Zachary T. Watson; one grandchild, Jemon Harris; one great-grandchild, Brandon Harris; three brothers, Tommie (Sheba) Watkins, Anderson (Mary) Watkins, and Willie B. Watkins; four sisters, Susie (Thomas) Bailey, Lue (Marcus) Winters, Lizzie (Tom) Johnson, and Anne Williams; sister-in-law, Berniece Watkins; brothers-in-law, Lyman Williams, and Junior Cheeks.
Mae Mae is survived by her only child, Mary Alice Harris (John); grandson, Isoul H. Harris; great-grandchildren, Anthony Geiger, Blair Harris, and Cameron Harris; great-great-grandchild, Nevaeh Harris; special cousin and longtime best friend, Viola Childers; and a host of loving family and friends.
Mae Mae loved life and laughter and uplifted others all around her with her signature mega-watt smile.
