Don M. Watkins

Don’s Celebration of Life will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 10, 2019, at McClain-Hays Chapel in Philadelphia, MS, with Dr. Ron Bird and Bro. Ken Boyette officiating.  Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, January 9, 2019, at McClain-Hays Funeral Home.  Burial will follow the Thursday service in Eastlawn Cemetery in Philadelphia, MS. Don Mitchell Watkins, 71, of Brandon, MS, entered eternal life peacefully on Sunday, January 6, 2018, at St. Dominic’s Hospital in Jackson, MS. Don was born on Aug. 5, 1947, in Philadelphia, MS, the son of Crockett and Johnnie Pearl Breland Watkins. He grew up in Philadelphia in the Spring Creek community and later, on Crockett Avenue. He graduated from Philadelphia High School in 1965, and went on to serve in the Armed Forces, start a family, and cement himself as a successful business man. An avid follower of Christ, Don enjoyed writing and researching genealogy, traveling, cooking and studying the Word of God. His adoration for his family was equally met by his love for adventure and learning – from the depths of the ocean to the tomb of Jesus, he had a great appreciation for life experiences and the pursuance of knowledge. He was fortunate to share his life of adventure with his beautiful wife, Tammy, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Don was a Deacon at First Baptist Church Fannin in Brandon, MS, where he taught Sunday school, where he also served as a friend and confidant to many. He was a Mason Past Master of Philadelphia Lodge #93, and a member of the Hamasa Shrine Temple in Meridian, MS.  His friends, family and colleagues would tell you he always lent a helping hand and was ready with words of advice or encouragement for those who asked, and even those who didn’t. Don touched many lives and will be missed by all who had the privilege to know him. Don is survived by his most beloved companion, friend and faithful wife, Tammy, along with their four children, eleven grandchildren and five great grandchildren who will forever be changed by his love, adventurous spirit, wisdom and guidance. His spirit will forever be carried on by his son, Don Harold Watkins (Laura); treasured daughter, Angela “Angie” Fryery (Stephen), much-loved daughter, Felicity Robbins (Walt), son, Joshua Cook; father, Crockett Watkins; brothers, Carey Watkins (Ann)and Terry Watkins (Rhonda); mother-in-law, Loretta May; and countless adored nieces, nephews and friends. He is preceded in death by his mother, Johnnie Pearl Breland Watkins; father-in-law, Thomas May; and great-grandson Michael “Cash” Medders. Don’s greatest joy was being a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and follower of Christ; and his family will forever adore him and the memories they’ve created with their best friend, confidant and father. Pallbearers are Chase Fryery, Logan Robbins, Shepherd Robbins, Russell Robbins, Shawn Medders, Brylan Overby, John Forrest Sisson, and Steve Busby. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorials be made to First Baptist Church Fannin Building Fund at 101 Church Road, Brandon, MS 39047, or a charity of choice.