Thomas "Tom" H. Watkins III

Thomas Henry Watkins III of Brandon, MS passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the age of 86. He was born on August 31, 1938, in Black Hawk, Mississippi and spent his youth in Morgan City, Mississippi prior to moving to California where he met his wife and raised his children. He was married to Judy Keim on December 24, 1961. He served in the Army’s 101st Airborne prior to attending Western Kentucky University on an athletic scholarship where he was selected “Mr. Western”. He graduated with a degree in business in 1967.

He worked as a Regional Manager for Texaco for 17 years. After his work with Texaco, he owned a bookkeeping / accounting business and spent his final working years as the Public Relations Director for a large multispecialty medical facility in California. During his working life he also invented a golf training aid and became a certified golf training professional.

He was actively involved in Church service all his married life including deacon service, hosting small groups in his home and planted a church in Pine Mountain California. He loved meeting new people and talking to them about Jesus.

He loved first and foremost his family and spending time with them. Rounding out his highly fulfilling life were his enjoyment in playing golf, traveling with Judy, and playing even more golf.

He was preceded in death by his Parents Rena and James Watkins; brothers, Vance Watkins and Joe Watkins; and daughter, Tamara Ashmore

He is survived by his wife, Judy Watkins; Son, Randy Watkins (Sandra); 7 Grandchildren; and 9 Great Grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Jackson Veterans Hospital, Carla Cooks of the Visiting Angels, Earnestine Albright, and Legacy Hospice for the care and compassion they showed Tom in his final days.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at Pinelake Church on Hwy 25 in Brandon, MS on Tuesday October 22, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in his honor to Pinelake Church Missions Fund.