Edith Maebell (Watkins) Shull

Edith Maebell Watkins Shull, 93, of Tobaccoville, NC, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her beloved family, on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.

Ms. Shull was born in Davidson County, NC, on February 29, 1932, to the late Dewey S. and Burley Brogden Watkins. She was a dedicated member of Hope Community Church in Winston-Salem, embodying faith and community spirit. Edith cherished her roles as mother and grandmother, viewing her family as the greatest blessing of her life. She found joy in crocheting, embroidery, and sewing, skillfully creating a beautiful wedding dress for her daughter and lovingly making all of the bridesmaids' dresses.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 32 years, Arlis Shull; her daughter, Anita Burley; two sisters, Pansey Watkins and Christine Olds; and a son-in-law, Ed Carver.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Glenda Carver, Emery “Buddy” James, and Robert “Robby” James (Belinda), her grandchildren: Sherry Melvin (DG), David Watkins (Sarah), Tamara Burley, Missty Hollaman (Chris), Jarred James, Michael James (Corteney), and Jonathan James (Sydney), two brothers: Curtis Watkins and Sam Watkins (LaDonn), 9 great-grandchildren and several beloved nieces and nephews.

The family sincerely thanks Trellis Supportive Care, Hope Community Church pastors and link leaders for their care and support during this time, as well as all friends and family, for their loving calls, texts, and letters that have meant so much to them.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Hope Community Church at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, with Bishop Paul Francis Lanier officiating. Visitors may greet the family following the service.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Trellis Supportive Care, 101 Hospice Ln. Winston Salem, NC 27103, or to Hope Community Church, 4660 Brownsboro Rd. Winston Salem, NC 27106.

Slate Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Edith Maebell Watkins Shull. Online condolences may be offered at www.slatefh.com.

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