Loyd Ray Watkins

Born in Berry Alabama red grew as a high school football star. After high school, he served in the US Army as an infantry soldier. He went on to establish a full recreational program for the youth and serve as a union officer at Goodyear tire and rubber Company for 29 years. He was called to preach in 1989. He served as pastor of Heath Baptist Church in Glencoe, Alabama. And lastly at North Weaver Baptist in Weaver, Alabama.

He was preceded in death by two wives, Joyce Dean Watkins and Inez Jenkins Watkins and three sons, Johnny Ray Watkins, Lloyd Dean Watkins Jr. and Danny Lee Watkins.

He is survived by his wife, Bobbie Finley Watkins, and three sons Ronald L. Watkins, Darrell W. Watkins, Robert T. Davis, and a daughter, Lucille Davis. Many nieces, nephews and brother-in-law’s.

Dale Butler and Joey Jones will be officiating.

Graveside officials will be Frank Fritz and Ray Madison.

Pallbearers will be Frank Fritz, Adam Watkins, Seth Balo, Colton Harris, Johnathan Turner and Josh Chandler.

A visitation will be held at Collier-Butler Funeral Home located at 824 Rainbow Drive, Gadsden, Alabama. The visitation is scheduled for February 18, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

A funeral service will follow at the same venue in the Chapel on February 18, 2026, starting at 4:00 pm.

Loyd Ray Watkins will be laid to rest at Flatwoods Cemetery.