Tommy Lee Watkins

Mr. Tommy Lee Watkins, age 83 of Clemmons, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. Tommy was born July 21, 1941, in Winston-Salem to the late O.B. Watkins and Margaret Spaugh Watkins. He graduated from Southwest High School in 1959 and retired with 37 years of service with R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company as a supervisor in the engineering department. Tommy, along with his wife Mary Ann, loved traveling to many car shows as members of “Heart of Carolina Street Rodders”. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ann Sloan Watkins in March of 2022. Surviving are one son, Kirt Watkins (Marcine); a daughter, Lori Eckenrode (Billy); granddaughters, Madison Brewer (Justin) and Meredith Poplin (Cody); grandsons, Sloan Watkins and Griffin Watkins; three great grandchildren, Wyatt Poplin, Kennedy Poplin, and Barrett Poplin; cherished brother, Richard (Becky) Watkins; and adored sister, Tinky (Johnny) Drane; along with numerous nieces and nephews. A Funeral Service will be held 11:00 AM Monday, January 13, 2025 at Yadkin Valley Baptist Church with Rev. Ronnie Craddock officiating. Private burial will follow at Forsyth Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Yadkin Valley Baptist Church, 1324 Yadkin Valley Rd., Advance, NC 27006. The family extends their heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the exemplary staff at Trinity Elms in Clemmons. Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com