Mr. James R. Watkins Sr. 73, of Perry GA entered into eternal rest on Monday May 1, 2023.

Funeral Services for Mr. James R. Watkins ,73 of Perry GA will be held Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at Davis Chapel A.M.E. Perry, GA. Interment in the Davis Chapel A.M.E. Cemetery, Perry GA.

James R. Watkins was born on May 11, 1949, in Perry, Georgia, to the late Elvira and Arthur Watkins, Sr. In 1969, he met the love of his life, Barbara L. Grace, and they were united in holy matrimony on November 1, 1970. Their union brought six beautiful children and they shared life together for fifty-two years. James was employed at Blue Bird Body Co. for thirty-four years. He was also a pillar of the community. On Monday, May 1, 2023, James Richard Watkins, Sr., transitioned from this life to eternal life, surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Timothy Watkins; and brothers-in-law, Gregory Grace and Reginald Grace (Dawn). He leaves his cherished affectionate memories to: his wife, Barbara L. Watkins; children, Carla Jackson, Cheryl G. Brown (Thomas), Tara L. Watkins (Kelsey), Shekina Daniely (Mandus), Dexter West, James Richard Watkins, Jr. (JaQuanza), Michael West, Carlos R. Watkins (Tamika), Kanorris V. Watkins (Shanta), and Tyler Ridley; siblings, Betsy Mae Smith, Eula Fluellen (Rayfus), Arthur Watkins, Jr. (Patricia), Robert Watkins (Gwen), Joseph Watkins, Sr., Earnest Watkins, Earlene Hill (George), Della Carmichael (Gerald), Aaron Watkins (Denise), Matthew Watkins (Elaine), and Marie Oliver (Michael); father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carrie and William Grace, Sr.; brothersin-law, William Grace, Jr. (Laura), Ronald Lawson (Jin), and Roderick Grace; sisters-in-law, Rose Taylor, Cynthia Perry (Calvin), Sharon Grace, and Marilyn Grace; aunts, Sallie Chaney, Essie Brooks, Henry Mae Davis, and Beulah Smith; and his sentimental memories will also be cherished by a host of grandkids, great-grandkids, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.