Our hearts are heavy as we share the passing of Wayne Jackson Watkins, Sr. on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at the age of 82.  To know him was to know strength, resilience and love that endured through every hardship life placed before him.

Wayne was born February 28, 1943 in Wilmington, the son of the late Andrew Jackson Watkins and Rosa Lee Leonard Watkins.

For the last 20 years, Wayne was unable to speak or use his right arm due to a stroke and having a prosthetic leg due to a snake bite.  He lived with many limitations that would have broken most people.  Through his pain, he never stopped smiling when he saw us.  That smile was his way of telling us everything words could not.  It carried strength, love and courage.

Prior to his illness, Wayne was a devoted outdoorsman.  He loved the woods (Old Place) and was an avid deer hunter, finding peace, joy and purpose in nature.  He loved teaching the young ones about hunting.

He was the toughest man we knew, his resilience and unshakable spirit were unmatched.  Though his body was confined his love for his family was boundless.

Wayne leaves behind his wife, Helen Richardson Watkins of 62 years; sons, Wayne Jackson Watkins, Jr., (Gail) and Anthony Glenn Watkins (Diane); brother, Tex Watkins (Brenda); and sister, June Brown; grandchildren, Wayne Watkins III, Brideon Watkins, Chloe Peedin (Reagan), and River Watkins; and great grandchildren, Addison, Kairi, Waylon and Van who he adored.  He also had many nieces and nephews.

He will forever be remembered for the way he endured life's hardest battles with dignity and for the way his presence brought light into the lives of those who loved him.

Though he is no longer with us, his smile, strength, love and treasured memories will remain in our hearts forever.

A graveside service to celebrate his life will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at Riverview Memorial Park with Pastor Billy Fowler conducting the service.  The family will receive friends following the service.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.quinnmcgowen.com

A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.