Dale Worth Watkins, age 80, passed gently from his earthly life Thursday, July 4, 2024 at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare in Wilmington.

He was born April 28, 1944 in Wilmington, one of five children born to Andrew Jackson Watkins, Sr. and Rosalee Leonard Watkins. In addition to his parents Dale was preceded in death by his brother, Andrew Jackson Watkins, Jr.

His love and memories will remain in the hearts of his wife of 55 years, Karen Russ Watkins; daughter, Kimberly Watkins Garver and husband, Doug; son, Jeffrey Watkins and wife, Kendra; granddaughter, Sydney Garver (called "My Little Sweetheart" by Dale); sister, June Brown; brothers, Wayne Watkins (Helen) and Tex Watkins (Brenda); a real best friend, Bob Herring; other relatives and friends.

Dale retired after working many dedicated years as a supervising engineer with Mobile Oil Company. Also, Dale served several years in the US Army reserves.

After his retirement Dale turned himself into an excellent builder. Along with brother, Wayne, he built the family home in Wallace. He did not stop there and built a cabin on their mountain cattle farm in Virginia, a place he loved to visit. FAMILY was of the utmost  importance to Dale as he was a dedicated, loving husband, daddy, and Grand Pa. Dale was loved and will be missed by family and  friends.

There will be a private family funeral service.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.