The Life of Rita Lea Watkins HIgginbotham

Rita Lea Watkins Higginbotham, 74, of Roanoke, Virginia, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Monday, April 29, 2024. She joins her most beloved parents, Hubert Lee and Viola Ethel Watkins in her new heavenly home.

Rita was born on August 13, 1949 in Hillsville, Virginia. The second of three children, she was raised in a loving home in Dugspur, Virginia close to the Goad family home place. It was near this home place in the waters of Adams Branch that Rita, in April of 1965, made the decision to be a baptized follower of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Rita graduated from Hillsville High School and went on to study cosmetology at the Hollywood School of Beauty in Roanoke, Virginia. She would soon transition to her greatest role in life: an amazing mother to two daughters.

She preferred to be an exceptional homemaker but on occasion could be convinced to bring out her shears for various family members.

Being a former member of St. John Lutheran Church she was honored to be a part of the altar guild for many years.

Rita was an avid admirer of all things beautiful. Certainly clothing, things that sparkled and her immaculate home. She was curator of her beloved family heirlooms but most notable her mother's many quilts.

Left to mourn her passing are her daughters, Heather Higginbotham French and husband, Brian of Roanoke and Sarah Higginbotham of Fancy Gap; also Rita's most beloved granddaughter, Mia Lea French, named in honor of her "Grammy". Rita is also survived by her sister, Alice Faye Watkins of Galax and her brother, Jimmy Watkins of Dugspur along with many other relatives and friends that she cherished in her heart. 

A private family viewing will be held at Oakey's South Chapel on Friday, May 3, 2024. A public graveside service will be held Friday at 2:00 PM at Evergreen Burial Park.