Dorothy JeanNell Watkins

Dorothy JeanNell Watkins, a dedicated nurse, loving mother, and lifelong scholar, passed away peacefully in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 6, 2025, at the age of 79.

Born in Joplin, Missouri, on November 30, 1945, Dorothy was raised in Galena, Kansas, by her mother, Billie Jean Cole. After graduating from Galena High School in 1964, she moved to Springfield, Missouri, to attend nursing school. The year 1967 proved momentous: she graduated from Burge-Protestant School of Nursing, married James L. Watkins, and began her distinguished nursing career.

Dorothy was a dedicated and compassionate Registered Nurse for over 40 years, earning the respect of her colleagues and the gratitude of countless patients. Most of her career was spent as either the house supervisor at Oak Hill Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, or as an ICU charge nurse at Desert Springs Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada. She also worked briefly at St. John's Memorial and Freeman Hospital in Joplin.

While balancing a demanding career, her role as a wife, and raising three children, Dorothy continued her education. In 1989, she proudly received her BSN from Pittsburg State University. Her academic and professional achievements were further recognized in 1990 when she was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, a prestigious organization of nursing leaders and scholars. She was also a member of the Missouri Council of Nurse Managers and was affiliated with the Missouri Organization of Nurse Executives.

Beyond her professional life, Dorothy loved traveling with her family to National Parks across the country and attending shows on the Las Vegas Strip.

Dorothy is survived by her children: Issac Oxford-Watkins, Margo Fletcher and her daughter Molly Fletcher, and Paul Watkins and his wife HongXia Li all of Las Vegas. She was preceded in death by her son, James Eric Watkins; her husband, James Leslie Watkins; and her mother, Billie Jean Cole. Funeral services will be Monday October 20th 11:00 a.m. at Boulder City Cemetery 501 Adams Boulevard Boulder City Nevada 89005 if friends and family would like to send condolences and any flowers they can be sent to Margo and Molly Fletcher at 1661 Papaya Court Las Vegas Nevada 89119.