It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Brooklyn Yvonne Watkins Fullen, who died on Monday, April 20, 2026. At the age of 86, her peaceful departure marks the end of a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and community service.
The news has brought a sense of solemn reflection to those in Bristol and Meadowview who knew her as a woman of steadfast devotion and quiet strength. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her loved ones, who are now navigating their grief while celebrating a legacy built on spiritual conviction and maternal love.
Born on November 6, 1939, to the late Lawrence “Dan” and Georgia Watkins, Brooklyn’s early years were shaped by the values of her family and her community. She attended Douglas High School in Bristol, Virginia, where she graduated in 1958, laying the educational foundation for a life of purpose and responsibility. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep respect for tradition, qualities that would guide her through the decades.
Brooklyn’s spiritual journey was a central pillar of her identity, beginning when she gave her life to Christ while attending AME Zion Church in Meadowview. She became a dedicated member of the congregation, actively participating in its ministries and fostering a sense of community among fellow believers.
Her faith was not merely a private matter but a guiding force that influenced her interactions and decisions. Friends and church members recall her unwavering commitment to her beliefs, noting how her spiritual presence provided comfort and inspiration to many within the church family.
Her personal life flourished when she married James Edward Fullen on May 2, 1959, starting a union that would last for decades. Together they raised three sons, creating a home filled with love, discipline, and support. Their marriage was characterized by mutual respect and shared values, providing a stable foundation for their growing family. Brooklyn’s role as a mother was defined by her selflessness and dedication, ensuring that her children were nurtured and guided with care.
On Friday, May 1, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., the family will be able to visit the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service. Friends and family get the chance to celebrate Brooklyn’s life and offer condolences at this event.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home, with the Reverend Herbert Scott officiating the ceremony. Interment will follow at Forest Hills Memory Gardens, providing a final resting place within the community she cherished. These arrangements offer a structured space for communal mourning and tribute.
Brooklyn Yvonne Watkins Fullen is survived by her husband James, their three sons, and three grandchildren, who continue to honor her memory through the values of faith and family she exemplified. Her life serves as a testament to the enduring power of spiritual devotion and maternal care. As her community reflects on her passing, they find comfort in the stories of her kindness and the impact she made on their lives. Her legacy endures in the hearts of those who were privileged to know her, reminding them of the importance of faith and connection.
