Sharon Dale Watkins (Strong), 73, passed away on February 9, 2025, in Warner Robins, Georgia.

Born on September 18, 1951, in Macon, Georgia, Sharon was the daughter of Gloria Gill Strong and Charles B. Strong Jr. She grew up attending Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Macon, where she performed numerous formal recitals as a trained pianist. From childhood into her teenage years, she captivated audiences with her solo performances, often receiving standing ovations for her beautifully played musical pieces.

Sharon dedicated over 30 years of service to AT&T as a long-distance telephone operator before retiring.

In her younger years, she enjoyed a variety of hobbies that reflected her creativity and adventurous spirit. She found joy in playing the piano, rollerskating, dancing, sketching, leatherworking, fishing, sportscars, and Nascar races. Her love for music remained an integral part of her life from childhood onward.

A compassionate soul with a deep love for animals, Sharon was known for her kindness toward all creatures. Though she had a special fondness for cats, she never hesitated to help any animal in need and always sought to provide care and nourishment whenever possible.

"Mothers and their children are in a category all their own. There is no bond so strong in the entire world, no love so instantaneous and forgiving."

"The truth is that no matter how old we are, we want our mother."

These quotes (authors unknown) are indicative of the love shared by Sharon and her two children.

Sharon is survived by her younger brother Phalen Strong; her daughter Andrea Leah Hamm; her son Justin Everett Ballew; and her nieces Tammy Strong Brenno, Holly Strong Woodall, and Amber Strong. She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandparents Paula Pryor Gill and Earl Gill; her uncle Timothy Earl Gill; her older brother Gary Richard Strong; her sister-in-law Suzon L. Strong; her younger brother Rodney Craig Strong; and husband Al Watkins.

A memorial service will be held on March 1, 2025, at 3:30 PM at Warner Robins Seventh-Day Adventist Church, located at 2288 Moody Rd., Warner Robins, GA 31088. Following the service, attendees are invited to gather in the church’s dining area to share a meal and memories together. Guests are asked to bring a covered dish for the gathering after the service. Out of respect for Seventh-Day Adventist beliefs, no pork products should be brought onto the premises.

Sharon’s memory will live on through those who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Rescue Ranch-Adoptable Cats in Middle Ga. and/or Paws In Middle Georgia Animal Rescue.

Memorial Service

Mar

1

Warner Robins Seventh-Day Adventist Church

2288 Moody Rd.
Warner Robins, Georgia 31088

3:30 PM