William "Billy" David Watkins, Jr., age 76, of Burgaw passed from his earthly life on Monday, October 22, 2018 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

He was born October 9, 1942 in Pender County, the son of the late William David Watkins, Sr. and Clara Elizabeth Deal Watkins. Also remembered is his beloved wife of 55 years, Judy Autry Watkins who died September 2, 2018; sister, Ann Watkins Bowden and brother, Wayne Carl Watkins.

Billy is survived by his daughter, Lisa Lewis and husband, Bart; grandchildren, Bradford Lewis and Allison Lewis; brothers, Eugene Watkins and wife, Carolyn and Bobby Lee Watkins and wife, Barbara; brother-in-law, Ross Bowden; extended family; and many friends.

He served his country honorably in the US Army and the NC National Guard. Billy was a past member of the Burgaw Jaycees.

Billy retired from Babcock and Wilcox where he worked in maintenance. It was noted that he could fix most anything. There were many times that Billy repaired things for older folks and persons in need, never seeking glory or praise for doing so. For pleasure and relaxation Billy loved to spend a day fishing. Billy's family was most important in his life and he was so proud of his daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. Billy was loved and will be missed.

The family will receive friends 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 27, 2018 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel with service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Frankie Seamster will conduct the service. Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers it was Billy's request that memorial gifts be given to Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401.

Another request that Billy strongly emphasized was that all guest and funeral home employees be tie free!

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Guestbook" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Burgaw.