Rachel Watkins Council

Raleigh -- Rachel Watkins Council, 87, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, surrounded by her family. A native of Wake County, she was the daughter of Juanita and Worth Watkins of the Caraleigh community.

Rachel is preceded in death by the love of her life for more than 60 years, Hal Neal Council. Rachel is survived by: children; David Council (Shannon) of Clayton, Leslie Chaney (George) of Glade Valley, Glynis Meeker (Eddie) of Sparta, Phyllis Lee (Stephen) of Smithfield; grandchildren, Katherine Wright (Earl), Walt Stanfield (Juliana), Calton Duckworth (Elizabeth), Bryan Council (Sydney), Chris Stanfield, Jessi Barber, Jackson Duckworth, Holden Duckworth (Alexis), Charles Stanfield (Lexi), Allyson Felts (Davis), Caroline Barber, Noah Lee, Connor Lee; great-grandchildren, Ivey Council, Finn Duckworth, Marcy Duckworth, Ellie Duckworth, Tate Council; former sons-in-law, Landis Stanfield, Tim Barber, Jamie Duckworth, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Raeford Lynch Watkins and sister-in-law Daisy Watkins.

Rachel was known for her dedication to worshiping Jesus Christ through her musical talent, playing the church organ and piano for over 60 years. Rachel was a dedicated member of Caraleigh Baptist Church for most of her life where she served in several leadership roles. Her happiest days were spent in the presence of her grandchildren, many she kept at a young age, and her great grandchildren. Rachel devoted her life to raising her four children and managing the Council household. When not spending time with her family, she enjoyed the company of her Caraleigh neighbors, participating in the Golden Age club, caring for those close to her, and occasionally playing bingo. Her legacy was mostly her large family, but she will always be remembered for the care she gave to her parents in their last days.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Caraleigh Baptist Church, 1400 Green Street, Raleigh, NC 27603.