Mrs. Dancia Lou Roper Watkins, 86, of Dalton, Georgia, peacefully entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.
on March 26, 1939, in Fairmount, Ga., Dancia was the cherished daughter of the late Clarence Lee “Pete” and Eunice Geneva Clark Roper. She was also preceded in death by her devoted husband of 51 and a half years, Pat Edward Watkins, who passed on June 25, 2007; her brother, Clarence Noel Roper; and her sister, Shelia Marie Roper.
A woman of unwavering faith, Dancia was a charter member of New Life Baptist Church, where her gentle spirit and generous heart were a blessing to all who knew her. She found joy in the simple, meaningful acts of love—writing heartfelt letters to those she cared for, remembering every detail that made others feel seen and special, and serving with kindness and grace. Even in a world that shifted to social media, Dancia held fast to the power of the written word, penning letters filled with encouragement, warmth, and Scripture.
Dancia devoted many years as a ceramics teacher at the Dalton Recreation Department, where her creativity and patience touched the lives of countless students. Her meticulous nature was a hallmark of her personality—she paid attention not only to the details of her craft but to the lives and hearts of those around her.
She often spoke of her anticipation of reuniting with the love of her life, Pat, in Heaven. Their love was a reflection of God’s grace—steadfast, tender, and enduring.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and faith in her family: her son, Joey Edward Watkins and wife Tina of Dalton, GA; her daughter, Kimberly W. Short and husband James of Adairsville, GA; her granddaughter, Ashleigh Watkins and Jamie Carrell of Dalton, GA; her beloved great-grandchildren, Kaden Watkins, Carson Carrell, Brayson Carrell, Elise Carrell, Levi Carrell, Lynn Carrell, Destyni Smith, and Raheem Baker. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Brenda Wable Roper of Powder Springs, GA; her special nephew, Derrick Roper of Dalton, GA; and several other cherished nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Dancia’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 25, at 4 p.m. at Ponders Melrose Chapel, with Reverend Ricky Spence and Reverend Paul Armstrong officiating. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved Pat at Chandler Cemetery in Calhoun, Georgia. Pallbearers include Douglas Roper, Michael Mulkey, Eric Stewart, Levi Carrell, Kaden Watkins, and Joseph Stewart. Rocky Albertson and Steve Barton will serve as honorary pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at Ponders Melrose Chapel from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday and again on Wednesday after 2:00 p.m. until the hour of service.
Arrangements are by Ponders Melrose Chapel, 138 Melrose Drive, Dalton, GA 30721, 706 226-4002, www.selectedindependentfuneralhomes.org.