Mr. Tommie Lee Watkins Sr.

****NOTE: FIRST UNITED BAPTIST CHURCH IS HOSTING A SERVICE IN LOVING MEMORY FOR THE FAMILY OF MR. TOMMIE LEE WATKINS, SR. ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024. ******SERVICE INFORMATION IS LISTED BELOW *****PLEASE NOTE: MASKS ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST AT THE FUNERAL HOME & AT THE CHURCH---BOTH BUILDINGS WILL PROVIDE HAND SANITIZER WHEN ENTERING THE BUILDING. ____________________________ OBITUARY Mr. Tommie Lee Watkins Sr. made his transition to his Heavenly Home on January 3, 2024 surrounded by his family, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The son of Lee Henry and Eva Watkins, Tommie Sr. was born on January 23, 1944, in Cruger, MS. At an early age, he moved to Chicago, Illinois with his parents. Tommie went to secondary school in Chicago and later was employed in various capacities in Illinois. While living in Chicago, Illinois he met the former Carrol Stribling who he united in marriage in 1966. To this union, 6 children were born: Charles, Alisa, Tommie Jr., Teresa, Angela and Jessica. In 1968, Tommie and Carrol relocated with their children to Kalamazoo, Michigan. Tommie was a hard worker who also worked in various capacities in Kalamazoo until he became employed with Upjohn Company. He worked as a Pharmaceutical Technician for over 30 years until his retirement. He was a member of Essential Lodge #10 under the jurisdiction of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the State of Michigan Free and Accepted Masons, where he served as Past Master of Central Lodge #10. Tommie enjoyed many hobbies which include: bowling, playing cards (especially bid whist) and fishing. He was very competitive and was known for his skills as a “Master Chess Player” and “The King of Chess”. Many would come from all around just to compete with him but couldn’t beat him! Tommie enjoyed horse racing and he owned 2 horses: Wild Willa and Lazy Lisa. He would race them at Jackson Harness Raceway. Tommie also enjoyed spending time with his family and traveling during summer. At family get-togethers, Tommie loved to barbecue ribs etc. which his family also loved! He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Tommie is preceded in death by his parents, Lee Henry and Eva Watkins; 1 son Tommie Watkins Jr.; 2 granddaughters Jasmine Watkins and Allece Walker; 4 sisters, Ida Pearl Summer; Lillie Mae Valentine, Eva Watkins and Elma Lee Watkins; 3 brothers, James Watkins, John Watkins, and Neal Watkins. Tommie leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Carrol Watkins of Kalamazoo, MI; 1 son, Charles Watkins of Kalamazoo; 4 daughters, Alisa (Michael) Monroe; Teresa (Dennis) Stokes all of Kalamazoo; Angela Watkins and Jessica Watkins both of Lexington, KY; 28 grandchildren; several great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Also, one sister, Willie Mae Watkins of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Mr. Tommie Lee Watkins Sr.

January 23, 1944 - January 3, 2024