John William Watkins Jr.'s Obituary
Funeral Service for Dr. John William Watkins, Jr., 89, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Sunday, October 6, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Victory Baptist Church. Bro. Braxton Baker, Bro. John Watkins III, Bro. Logan Watkins, Bro. Bobby Bates and Bro. Chris Fuller will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Dr. John William Watkins, Jr., affectionately known as Dr. John, entered into eternal rest on October 3, 2024, in Alexander City, Alabama. Born on May 21, 1935, in Elmore County, Alabama, Dr. John was a beacon of faith and love throughout his 89 years of life, touching the hearts and souls of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Dr. John was a man of profound faith and dedication. He earned his bachelor's degree from the Baptist Bible Institute and later a Doctorate of Divinity, reflecting his lifelong commitment to spiritual education and leadership. His calling led him to become the founding Pastor of Victory Baptist Church, where he served with unwavering devotion. Dr. John also took on the role of Administrator at Victory Baptist Academy, shaping the minds and spirits of countless young individuals.
As a family man, Dr. John's legacy is carried on by his loving son, John W. (Tanya) Watkins, III, and his daughter, Tammy (Wayne) Truett. His life's joy was further multiplied by his grandchildren, Kimberly (Doug) Watkins Pittman, Bethany Watkins, Brooke (Brent) Willoughby, Haley (Kyle) Taylor, Brad (Kara) Truett, Stefan Reynolds, Caleb Reynolds, and Emily (Harley) Brown. The twinkle in his eye shone brightest when he was surrounded by his great-grandchildren, Logan Watkins, Bela Valdez, Adam Truett, Lauren Truett, Lexi Willoughby, Addisyn Willoughby, Trey Taylor, Olivia Truett, and Hallie Cox. He is also remembered by his family, Terry and Bertha Stowes. Dr. John was preceded in death by his father, John William Watkins, Sr., his mother, Allie Mae Watkins, and his beloved wife, Wyvonne Andrews Watkins.
Dr. John's passion for preaching the Word was unmatched. He had an insatiable desire to reach the lost and was a cherished pastor who loved to visit his congregation members, offering comfort and guidance. His role as a friend, teacher, preacher, and mentor was embraced with a loving heart and open arms. He had a unique gift for mentoring other pastors, sharing his wisdom and experience generously. Dr. John never met a stranger; he could strike up a conversation with anyone and always found the good in others.
His love for his family knew no bounds. Dr. John's spirited nature was evident in the way he cherished every moment with his loved ones, creating a legacy of love that will endure for generations. His interests extended beyond his ministry work; he found solace in the tranquility of fishing, the satisfaction of gardening, and the simple pleasures of trips to Clanton for peaches.
Dr. John's life was a testament to the words that best describe him: faith-filled, spirited, and loving. He lived with a conviction that radiated through his actions and the comfort he provided to others. His presence was a source of strength and inspiration, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who were blessed to know him.
As we bid farewell to Dr. John, we celebrate a life that was rich in love, faith, and service. His spirit will continue to guide us, and his memory will remain a cherished treasure in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched. Dr. John William Watkins, Jr.'s journey on earth may have concluded, but his influence will resonate for eternity.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Victory Baptist Church and Victory Baptist Academy.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Dr. John William Watkins, Jr.
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