Elizabeth Ann Watness

Elizabeth Ann Watness age 65, of Clarksville, TN, passed away at her residence on Sunday May 9, 2021.  She was born in Indianapolis, IN, the daughter of Dorothy Gravatt Burkes and the late Arthur Burkes. Elizabeth is a graduate of Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, IL.  Elizabeth was a teacher and librarian for many years and throughout her life she was a seamstress.  She is a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church where she sang in the church choir.  She was a volunteer for Quilts of Valor and was a longtime fan of John Denver.  She is survived by her daughters Melissa Ann Watness of Myrtle Beach, SC; and Celeste Jefcoats of Franklin, IN; and a son Matthew Christopher Watness of Lithia Springs, GA.  She is also survived by brothers Ted Burkes, Stan Burkes, and Jeff Burkes and her sister Cathy Spears.  Elizabeth is also blessed with three grandchildren, Elizabeth Watness, Hannah Jefcoats, and Sarin Leah Follini. She is also survived by her former husband Christopher Watness.  In addition to her father, she is preceded in death by her brother David Burkes. A proud independent woman of strong character, faith and morals, with very few limitations. A loving mother to more than just her own, and a giver of truly unconditional love. A hopeless romantic, a dreamer, a lover of natural beauty, gardens, flowers, trees, rainbows and sunsets. An inspiring artist, craftswoman and creator with a great imagination, she could make or fix just about anything, a true do-it-yourselfer, an impressively skilled seamstress and designer of clothing, she made practical garments as well extravagant costumes for her kids school plays, musicals and Halloween. She also found much joy in creating clothes and furniture for dolls. She loved being a part of projects, groups, and using her skills, knowledge and creativity for helping people. She spent many years teaching children in public and private schools, and helped countless people as a tax professional. Also a lover of music and singing, she sang at home, in the car, and in the church choir for countless years, she sang to her children even before they were born, and could bring the joy and therapy of music anywhere with her, and additionally passed on her love for music and musical abilities to all three of her children. She was always generous, kind, and made her home welcoming to everyone. She was a loving mother and grandmother of more than just her own. (Many of friends considered her mom as well) she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and tell you the honest truth but sometimes we needed that. She was patient. She was grateful for her family and loved ones. She had a beautiful voice and enjoyed sharing it with the world. She is, has been and will forever be connected with god. Memorial services for Elizabeth will be conducted on Saturday May 15, 2021 at 2:00 P.M. at Gateway Funeral Home.  Arrangements are under the care of Gateway Funeral Home and Cremation Center 335 Franklin Street Clarksville, TN  37040.  Phone 931-919-2600.  Online condolences may be made by going to www.gatewayfh.com.