Valton Lee Watkins

Valton Watkins, of Fort Worth, Texas, went to be with the Lord on February 24, 2025, in Fort Worth. He will always be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend to all who knew and loved him.

Valton was born on March 28, 1936, in Charlie, Texas, to Thelma and Haskell Watkins. He graduated from Iowa Park High School in 1954 and subsequently joined the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Germany. During his service, he met and married Christa Schabl, eventually reaching the rank of Corporal. After three years, Valton returned to Iowa Park, Texas.

From his first marriage to Christa, Valton was blessed with three children: Lee, David, and Lisa. Sadly, the marriage ended in 1967. In 1969, he found love again and married Janie Crelia, with whom he raised five children and two grandchildren until her passing in 1988. Janie was a cherished partner and mother, and she brought two children, Ray Lynn and Dwight, and two grandchildren, Chad and Jamie, into Valton's life.

Valton had a profound relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and he cherished his church family deeply. He was known for his kindness, warmth, and unwavering faith.

He is survived by his sister, Faye Eaton, and brother, Glen Watkins (Claudette); his children, Lee Watkins (Debbie) of Fort Worth, Texas, David Watkins (Sangdow) of Austin, Texas, and Lisa Stewart (Gordon) of Brenham, Texas; as well as his grandchildren, Jennifer Black (Rodney), Amy Moore, Stephanie Abernathy (Clint), Blake Taylor, Lee Watkins, Jesse Watson (Amanda), Sydney Shreves (Devon), Brooke Smith (Arron), and Nova Watkins. Valton also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren: Noah, Ava, Shaye, Rylee, Lucas, Gracey, Layken, Breckyn, and Aaron.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thelma and Haskell; his two wives, Janie and Roberta; one sister, Billy Jean; brother-in-law, Bill Eaton; and one grandchild, Jamie, along with many dear friends he made throughout his life.

A Celebration of Life Service Saturday, March 22, 2 PM

Aurora Baptist Church 201 Derting Rd, Aurora, TX 76078

Interment Monday, March 24, 1 PM DFW Memorial Cemetery 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy Dallas, TX 75211

Valton's life was a testament to love, faith, and family, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.