James Joseph Watkins

Jim Watkins 91, of The Villages, FL , passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on February 19th 2023. He was born November 1931 in Hell's Kitchen, New York City, to parents Bronson Alcott Watkins and Anna Elizabeth Downes. His father died young, so Jim was raised by his Mother and later by his Stepfather William Purdy. During the depression Jim made lifelong friends in Joe Massaro, Harold Gorochow, Dickie Barlow and Einer Jensen and led an adventurous life. During the Korean conflict he made the choice to join the Army and served honorably. When he returned to NYC, he wasted no time in finding and marrying the love of his life, Rose Evelyn Herrera in 1955. They eventually settled in Bayside Queens, New York and raised 6 kids. After his Army service, Jim worked in the dental field, making dentures. A perfectionist, his skills were recognized by many. Later, he served his community as a volunteer for Caring Calls for Seniors in NYC. A job he loved and would discuss with anyone who would listen. When all the kids were young we spent weeks every summer at a camping lodge in Peekskill, in upstate NY, so many great memories. Pizza night with Joe Massaro and the families was not to be missed. Jim was frugal and a big fan of the “all you can eat” buffet. He was always amazed at how the buffets could make any money considering the amount of food he would eat!! He loved to dance, he never missed an opportunity to jump up and grab his wife and dance wherever they were even in the grocery store, we all enjoyed his unique sense of humor. He loved playing the stock market and going on long bike rides and walks. He moved to Florida in 2015 to be closer to his children. He was preceded in death by his parents Bronson and Anna and Stepfather William Purdy, his Sister Marion Jones and best friends Joe Massaro, Harold Gorochow, Dickie Barlow and Einer Jensen. He is survived by his Wife Rose Watkins, Brother Tom Purdy and his family; His children James Watkins and his wife Lynn, Cliff Watkins, Elizabeth Good and her husband Travis, Kenneth Watkins, Joseph Watkins and his wife Cathy and Brian Watkins; Grandchildren Lauren, James, Brian, Alyssa, Dianna, Nicole, Jesse, Stephanie and Sarah; Great Grandchildren Paige, Morgan, Brantley, Paisley, Savannah, Trenton and Tommy. Jim was loved dearly and will be missed. Military Burial Service to be held at a later date.

James Joseph Watkins

November 17, 1931 - February 19, 2023