Margaret E. Watkins

Margaret Elizabeth Watkins joined her husband, Melvin, on October 14, 2012. Margaret was born April 17, 1920, in Payette, Idaho to Jasper Beeson and Harriet M. Judd Beeson. The family moved to Weiser when she was five years old. She went to Hale School on Weiser Flat for the first eight years. She began high school in Weiser and graduated from Caldwell High School in 1938. After high school, she attended Nampa Business School.In 1941, Margaret began a thirty four year career with the AAA (now the Farm Service Agency). During that time she worked at the State Office and eventually transferred to the County Office in Caldwell. She served the Farmers of Canyon County in many different capacities. She retired in 1975. Margaret had a beautiful soprano voice and sang at a multitude of events, including weddings, funerals, and conventions. She joined the Oregon Trail Grange #198 in 1939 and transferred to the Middleton Grange in 1946. She served as chaplain, lecturer, assistant, conductor, and secretary. Her Grange Membership spanned 73 years. In 1942 Margaret became a member of the Gem of the Mountains Rebekah Lodge in Caldwell and eventually became a member of the Pansy Rebekah Lodge in Middleton. She served in many different capacities and enjoyed the friendships developed throughout the state. She served on the Board for the Odd Fellows Home for twelve years. She was still a member in good standing at the time of her passing. On May 12, 1948, she married Melvin A. Watkins of Middleton. Their only son, Harold, was born in 1949. During their 58-year union they were involved in the Middleton Community through their Grange and Lodge and Church – the Middleton Methodist Church. They maintained the family farm. These strong ties served as a wonderful example of what can be accomplished with much faith, hard work, and the love of family and friends. In 1980, Margaret became a Grandmother. She always thought of this as the Best Job Ever. Her Grandson, Matthew, enjoyed a close relationship with both of his grandparents. He was their pride and joy. Margaret was known for her cooking – particularly her pies which were Blue Ribbon Winners at the County Fair. She baked for Church, Lodge, Grange, and School Events. And often her twelve inch pies were the “asked for” birthday present of many friends and family members. Examples of Margaret’s handiwork are exhibited in the many afghans, slippers, and embroidered pillowcases that were crafted with care for many different people. Her legacy will be one of faith, honesty, forthrightness, and a deep love for family and friends. Margaret is survived by her son, Harold, daughter-in-law, Pat, and Grandson, Matthew. She is also survived by her brother, Floyd Beeson, sister-in-law, Joy House, numerous nieces and nephews and other family members whom she dearly loved. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Helen, and her husband, Melvin. A Special Thank you to Mom’s Dear Friends Virginia and Lee Moberly and Lucille Overlin. Your visits made her days brighter. The Family wishes to thank Karcher Estates and The Cottages in Middleton Assisted Living for the kindness and dedicated care shown Margaret. With heartfelt appreciation, we thank Journeys Hospice for helping our family throughout the last years of Mom’s Life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the charity of your choice. Service Information