Donald R. Watkins, 87, of Winter Garden, FL passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at AdventHealth Hospital Winter Garden, with his loving family by his side.
Don was born February 19, 1935 in Centralia, WA, the son of Jessie James & Desolee (Clark) Holt. He was raised by Herman & Desolee Watkins in various WA cities, legallychanging his name to Watkins when he entered the U.S. Army. He served in the Army from 1955-1958, where he met and married the love of his life for 64 years, JacquelineJ. Hamilton.
Don loved being a Salinas CA Police Officer for 27 years, playing softball, telling stories, caring for his cats, and eating at his favorite taco restaurant. Don is survived by his loving wife Jackie, and their three children Kim (Steve) Engmann of Appleton, WI and Winter Garden, FL, Kathy (Keith) Pierce of Boise, ID,
and Keith Watkins of Round Rock, TX. He is also survived by grandchildren Dr. Mathew (fiancé Dr. Ellen) Engmann of Milwaukee, WI, Tanner (Dianora) Engmann of Frankfort, Germany, Kara (Emery) Holden of Spanish Fork, UT, Spencer Pierce of Boise, ID, and Conner Pierce of Verona, WI, as well as five great-grandchildren.
Don is further survived by his half-brother Clark (Kris) Watkins of Richland, WA, sister- in-laws Pat (Glenn) Blanchard and Donna Lawrence of Winter Garden, FL, and several nieces and nephews.
Don was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law Richard Lawrence.
Visitation will be held at Winter Garden Primitive Baptist Church 943 W Story Road, Winter Garden, FL on Saturday, January 21, 2023 from 12-1pm. Services to follow at 1pm, officiated by Elders Glenn Blanchard and Ray Blanchard. Family and friends are invited to a light meal and fellowship at the church following the services.
Burial will be held on Monday January 23, 2023 at 11:00 am at Winter Garden Cemetery 13459 Lake Butler Blvd, Winter Garden, FL.