Mary Ann Watkins Stevens, beloved wife, mother, sister, friend, and community leader, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, at the age of 83.

Born on Valentine's Day, February 14, 1943, in Inverness, Mississippi, Ann was the daughter of Joseph Wesley Watkins, Jr. and Mary Alice Catlette. She grew up in Inverness and attended the University of Mississippi (‘Ole Miss), graduating in 1967 with a degree in Anthropology. She carried the warmth, grace, and hospitality of her Southern upbringing throughout her life, touching many lives with her kindness, generosity, and vibrant spirit.

After she graduated, she obtained a job in Brussels, Belgium, and met her husband, Thomas Edward Stevens Jr., who was working in France at the time. They married in Brussels in 1969 and then returned to Tom’s hometown of Wilmington. DE. In 1971, they bought an 1860s house in Middletown, DE, that became their forever home.

Ann was devoted to her family. She was predeceased by her older sister, Mollye Francis Watkins Lester, and older brother, Joseph Wesley Watkins III. She is survived by her loving husband, Tom; her cherished daughter, Mary Amanda Stevens; her brothers, William Sherrill Watkins and Gordon Estes Watkins; her sister-in-law, Carol Stevens Harding; and dear nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends too numerous to mention. She was a steadfast source of love, encouragement, and wisdom to those fortunate enough to know her.

A dedicated advocate for education, community service, and the arts, Ann was an active member of Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO) and the American Association of University Women (AAUW). She was also an active member of St. Anne’s Episcopal Church and served for several years as the Senior Warden of the Vestry, where her leadership and commitment strengthened the parish community. She was also a founding board member of the Everett Theatre in Middletown, Delaware, helping to foster and preserve an important cultural and artistic asset for generations to enjoy.

Ann's greatest gift was her ability to make everyone feel welcomed and valued. With a vibrant personality and a generous Southern soul, she freely shared her compassion, laughter, and friendship with all who crossed her path. Through her volunteer work, church service, community involvement, and simple acts of kindness, she left an enduring mark on many lives.

A graveside memorial service celebrating Ann's life will be held at 11:30 am on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Hickory Grove Cemetery, with Rev. Mary Howard King officiating. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola has been entrusted with arrangements.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Ann's memory to AAUW, the PEO Foundation, All Saints’ Episcopal Church in Inverness, or the Everett Theatre in Middletown, DE.

Ann will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and all whose lives were enriched by her remarkable warmth, generosity, and grace.