Gary Dean Watkins

Gary Dean Watkins, 69, lifetime resident of Jonesboro, passed away Monday, March 4, 2013.


He was born September 25, 1943 to R.E. and Hazel Watkins of Jonesboro.


Gary was a member of Christian Valley Christian Church in the Valley View community of Jonesboro, and a graduate of Nettleton High School.


He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Dana Sue (Neely) Watkins; daughters Paige Woods and her husband Brian of Jonesboro, Gina Watkins of Connecticut; son Jason Watkins of Jonesboro; granddaughters Brittany Warnick and her husband Josh, Taylor Woods; and great-granddaughter Olivia Warnick, all of Jonesboro; nieces Melody Walker of Little Rock, Christy Watkins of Jacksonville, FL, Jeri Ann Watkins of Jonesboro, Melissa (Lisa) Amann of Galena, MO, and Kim Williams of Paragould; nephews Warren Walker of Little Rock and Tony Watkins of Jacksonville, FL; six great-nieces and two great-nephews; three great-great nieces and one great-great nephew.


Gary was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Blake Watkins; sister Catherine Walker; and three brothers Rex, Jerry, and his twin Larry Watkins.


Gary retired after 30 years of service with the Colson Caster Corporation of Jonesboro. Throughout his career with Colson, he held several positions and was very proud to have been a part of the management team. During his time in management, he attended several continuing education business classes at Arkansas State University.


In November 2012, Gary was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace, District 8. He was very grateful to have been elected to this office and served his district with pride. Gary was appointed to serve on the Finance Committee.


Throughout his life and into his retirement, Gary thoroughly enjoyed fishing and hunting with his family and friends. He cherished these times and looked forward to sharing these adventures with everyone.


Visitation will be Thursday from 5-8 at Emerson Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Friday at 2 at Emerson Memorial Chapel with Bro. Eldon Richardson officiating. Burial will follow at McDaniel Cemetery.


Active pallbearers will be Warren Walker, Larry Cook, David Cook, Jerry Reece, Gary Chambers and Mike Duncan.


Honorary pallbearers will be Tony Watkins, Don Hinson, Tommy Glover, Larry Emison, Larry Ransone and Herbert Shipman.