On Thursday, March 30, 2023, the Lord picked a flower from his garden, Derrick Manquel Watkins. He was born on April 1, 1971, to William Threadgill and Saundra Watkins.
Derrick attended Southern Guilford High School and was an avid sports fan. In high school, he played baseball and football. And even after graduation, he continued to hold the longest record for yards rushing in football for over 20 years.
A smile and big heart best describe Derrick. He had love and respect for everyone and never met a stranger. He was always willing to help anyone he could. In his leisure, Derrick enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending quality time with family and friends.
He leaves to cherish his memories: his father, William Threadgill; his loving mother, Saundra Watkins; two children, Chelsea Bryant and Taylor Bryant; two grandchildren, Juelz Posey and Miyani Miller; brother, Dayeman Watkins; two nieces, Malaysia and Imani Watkins; six aunts, Trisha Taylor Nash (William), Beverly Wilson, Vanessa Shine, Elaine Threadgill, Winnie Ruth Watkins and Anna Watkins; four uncles, Robert (Ruth) Watkins, Louis (Anna) Watkins, Tyrone Watkins, and Henry Shine; best friend, Shane Trotter and a host of cousins and good friends.
Funeral service will be held Friday, April 7, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel. Interment will follow at Guil-Rand Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the chapel from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.
Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.
Love & Compassion Arrangement was sent for Mr. Derrick Manquel Watkins - April 04, 2023
derrick was a great guy and friend to everyone,he was always smiling and laughing,until we meet again my friend
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY. JANET COLSON AND FAMILY
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY.
Derrick was an amazing friend who was the one who kept us smiling. He will definitely be missed and he is now free from pain. Praying for his entire family and all of his friends. Love you Derrick until we meet again. LaVonda Donnell SGHS C/O "88"
I am so sorry to all of Derricks family and friends. He never met a stranger and always spoke when I seen him. He is truly one of Gods Golden hearted people that was placed on this earth with us. And we are all better for knowing him and that big smile. RIP Derrick ... class of 89 ... Jamie Grant
"Mom, can we give Derrick a lift home?" Two youngsters laughing and tired from baseball practice. Derrick and my son, Chris Camp. I still smile when I think of the joy Derrick spread in this world. Just a few encounters with Derrick but his joy left an impression that I remember after all these years. My heart aches for those of you in his family. Hold on to your wonderful memories. Peggy Camp Wilson.
Sandra may God comfort your heart and continue to hold your hands
Sending Prayers And I Love You All, My deepest sympathy. (Rest In Love Derrick). Brenda Elder
I just wanted to formally offer my condolences to the family as I'll be unable to attend the home going service this Friday as I'll be in Miami on a prior work commitment that I can't get out of. I met your son/brother when I was 5 yrs old in Springfield Townhouses and we've shared some great memories fishing, in the outdoors, on sports fields and just having a great time in general. He will be sorely missed. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this time and that I am thinking of you during this time.
Respectfully,
Eric Bostic
To Sister Sandra Watkins & Family, please accept our deepest Condolences and Prayers. May the Lord, continue to be with you and comfort your heart.
Evangelist Teresa Legette
My Condolences to his family and children. My Grandchildren Chelsea and Taylor🙏🙏
My Condolences go out to his family and his Children Chelsea and Taylor
Im gonna miss u D. Wat. You where a good man. No more suffering.. R.I.P. King G2S🌹
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.