Percy Happy Watkins Jr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Reverend Percy "Happy" Watkins Jr., who left us at 82, leaving a legacy of unwavering faith, resilience, and dedication to his community. Born in the Bronx, NY, in 1942, Happy was the eldest of ten children born to Percy Sr. and Evelyn Watkins. Even from a young age, he exhibited a deep devotion to faith and service, qualities that would define his life.

In 1960, at 19, Happy enlisted in the Air Force, beginning a journey that would bring him to Spokane, WA, where he was stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base. It was here that he met the love of his life, Etta Jean Batsell, whom he married in 1963. Their 61 years together were filled with faith, family, and an enduring partnership in service.

After his military service, Happy held many roles in the workforce—from selling life insurance across Eastern Washington and North Idaho to driving a school bus, to owning and operating a restaurant aptly named “Happy’s.” His love for people shone through each role, whether he was greeting patrons or mentoring those around him.

In 1985, Happy received a spiritual calling that led him to become an assistant pastor at Calvary Baptist Church. Not long after, he followed his own path to establish New Hope Baptist Church, where he served as pastor for nearly 30 years. Under his leadership, New Hope became a sanctuary for the community, a place where people found guidance, compassion, and unwavering support. Happy was not only a pastor; he was a spiritual father to many, offering solace and encouragement through life's highs and lows.

Known throughout Spokane for his iconic recitations of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s “I Have a Dream” speech, Happy captivated audiences with his powerful voice and moving presence. For over 50 years, he performed this speech annually, each rendition reminding others of the importance of equality, justice, and community. Beyond his spoken words, Happy took action—founding the annual MLK March in Spokane, serving as a hospital and prison chaplain, and dedicating countless hours to local organizations. He served on boards like the Fig Tree Newspaper, the Gonzaga Prep High School Board of Directors, and was a founding member of the MLK Center Board.

Happy's impact on Spokane extended further than anyone could count; he officiated thousands of weddings and funerals, and his work earned him lasting recognition. He was honored with 80 scholarships in his name at Gonzaga Prep, an annual Avista scholarship, and a nomination to the Spokane Citizens Hall of Fame.

Yet, his personal life was one of warmth and humor. His children fondly remember the playful side of him—transforming the living room into a wrestling ring, dance parties to the Jackson Five, and Saturday playtime where he would lead them in games, unbothered by broken trinkets or spilled drinks.

Reverend Watkins is survived by his beloved wife, Etta, his children Percy (Levonia), John (Lynn), Paul (Kim), James (Shawn), and Anna. He is also survived by his fourteen beloved grandchildren and twenty-three cherished great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to his life. He is preceded in death by his parents, his siblings Genevieve, Gwendolyn, Donald, Nathaniel, and Gilbert, and his granddaughter LaShawn.

A viewing will be held on November 14th from 1:00pm-4:00pm at Ball & Dodd Funeral Home followed by Happy’s celebration of life which will be held on November 15th at 1:00 pm at Life Center Church in Spokane. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to New Hope Baptist Church in his honor at https://giv.li/zasplp or by visiting the Church's website at newhopebaptistspokane.org.

Happy’s laughter, love, and light will forever shine within the community he cherished and served. May he rest in the peace he so richly deserves, as his legacy of faith, service, and joy continues to inspire.