Deborah Elkins Watlington
Deborah Elkins Watlington, affectionately known as "Tiggy" by her grandchildren, died on Monday, October 5, 2015.
Born on February 25, 1952 in Clarksdale, Ms., Debbie moved to Cowan, Tn., as an infant. She graduated from Franklin County High School, attended MTSU, and then graduated with a degree in dental hygiene from UTCHS in 1974. In 1977 she married the love of her life, Rob, and in 1979 they moved to Lookout Mountain, Ga. where they raised their three children and Debbie worked for many years as a dental hygienist in Rob's dental practice.
She finally succumbed to a long illness that she handled with courage, dignity, and grace. Debbie had a joy for life that was contagious to everyone she met and loved. Those who loved her well would describe her as someone with a great sense of humor and who loved those around her deeply and unconditionally. She simply was an easy person to love; a remarkably loyal friend and faithful servant.
For 10 years, Debbie gave of her time and talent to help the impoverished citizens of Haiti. Using her gifts, she traveled numerous times to this country, providing necessary medical and dental care to those in need. She was passionate about the people of Haiti and was legendary in how she cared for them.
As a believer in Jesus Christ, Debbie was a member of Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church for 37 years.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Horace C. Elkins and Patricia Manning Elkins and a brother, Dr. Charles P. Elkins.
She is survived by her husband, Dr. Rob Watlington, her children, Reverend Alex Watlington (Becki), Elizabeth Watlington Davis (Brad), and Ben Watlington (Nicki), her beloved grandchildren, Whit, Miles, Monroe, and Lana, as well as her most favorite dog ever, Nancy. Mourning her loss will also be her sister, Daphne Seaman, brothers, Dr. Bryan Elkins and Doyle Elkins and many nieces and nephews.
Her life will be celebrated on Friday, Oct. 9, at 11:30 a.m. at Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church with Reverend Joe Novenson, Reverend Frank Hitchings, and Reverend Alex Watlington officiating.
The family will receive friends from 10-11:30 a.m. at Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church on Oct. 9.
Debbie's love, passion, and dedication to the people of Haiti was enormously significant. In remembrance and honor of her life, a portion of Debbie's ashes will be spread in this country that she worked so faithfully to serve.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Children's Nutrition Program of Haiti, who for 25 years, has worked to improve the health and wellness of Haitian mothers and children.www.cnphaiti.org
Arrangements are by Wann Funeral Home & Cremation Center, at the foot of historic Lookout Mountain, St. Elmo, 423 821-7551.
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