George Watkins

George Watkins, age 83, of Etowah TN went to be with his Lord and Savior, peacefully as he was surrounded by family in his home on Saturday, October 4, 2025. He was a kind hearted man, a loving father, a devoted husband of 59 years to his wife, Donette.

George was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Rosella Watkins of Athens TN, sister Charlotte Whitted of Athens, Jimmy Watkins of Athens, grandson Coty Harris of Decatur TN. 

He is survived by his loving wife Donette Moses Watkins; sons and daughters-in-law, Shane and Whitney Watkins and Tracy and Jaynel Watkins; grandchildren, Brandon Watkins and wife, Jessica, Chelby Harris, Jaynessa Carlson, Olivia Watkins, and Jackson Watkins; great-grandchildren, Delayne Harris, Liam Harris, Bryleigh Watkins, Ace Watkins and Bexley Watkins; brother and sister-in-law, John and Mary Lou Watkins; sister and brother-in-law, Jane and Jimmy Knox; several nieces and nephews. 

George was a member of New Zion Baptist Church of Etowah TN. He loved reading his bible and faithfully attended Sunday school class as well as church regularly. George worked at Alfred’s Supermarket in Athens, and Kroger for 37 years. He was an avid hunter, and a member of Buck Creek Hunting Club. George enjoyed driving, admiring, and owning classic cars. He was a member of the Classic Ford Car Club. George attended and participated in many car shows. He loved spending time with his family and friends.

Funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 8, 2025 in the chapel of Bordwine Funeral Home with Rev. Stan Hammonds officiating. 

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday prior to the service. 

Family and friends will assemble at Bordwine Funeral Home at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, October 9, 2025 and go in procession to New Zion Baptist Church Cemetery for the committal service. In honor of George, you are encouraged to drive a classic car in the funeral procession. All Chevy’s may be towed.

Shane Watkins, Tracy Watkins, David Anderson, Jason Anderson, Brandon Watkins, Don Stewart, Jackson Watkins will serve as pallbearers. Eddie Harris, Terry Moses and Jimmy Knox will serve as honorary pallbearers. 

The family would like to send a special thank you to Hospice of Chattanooga and the wonderful staff of the Athens Team for the care they provided for their loved one.