Donald Watkins

Don Watkins, our most loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away at home with his loved ones on April 30, 2016 at seventy-three years old. He accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior many years ago, and was a faithful member of New Market Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by parents, Hugh and Julia Watkins, brother, Pfc. John Watkins; sister, Vernice Newman; foster-brother, Floyd Breeden; brother-in-law, Raymond McCarter; aunt, Nellie Burke; and father-in-law, Shelby Vinyard. He is survived by wife of forty-six years, Shelby; daughter, Robin (Tony) Willis; son, Johnny (Lisa) Watkins; daughter, Jayna (Tadd) Minton; most wonderful granddaughter, Lyndsey; mother-in-law, Hazel Vinyard; brothers and sisters, Bernard (Kathleen) Watkins, Virgie and niece Sharon McCarter, Glenda (Junior) Nichols; brother-in-law, Jimmy (Brenda) Newman; and beloved dog, Ella; as well as several nieces and nephews; and a host of special friends and neighbors. He passed on his love of animals to his oldest daughter, Robin; his love of old school things, techniques and values to his only son, Johnny; and his love of adventure and travel to his youngest daughter, Jayna. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Amedysis home health, therapy, and hospice for their gentle, loving care, especially Joann and Garret. As a family, we have been carried through the past year by the prayers of hundreds of caring people You have supported us by visits, cards, calls, food, and hugs. All of these acts of love lifted us up and made us feel most cherished. You provided a living tribute both to him and to us that warmed our hearts daily. To sum it up- you did it all. Therefore, we have chosen to say goodbye to our dear loved one in private. No formal services are planned. If you wish to honor his memory, memorial donations may be made to New Market Baptist Church men’s Sunday school class benevolence fund at 921 Churchview St., New Market, TN, 37820, or to Friends of Hospice, Serenity House, at 400 West Main Street, Morristown, TN 37814. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and He delighteth in his way.” -Psalm 37:23

Donald Watkins

October 18, 1942 - April 30, 2016