Russell Lee Watkins

01/19/1932 - 10/24/2025

Russell Lee Watkins, age 93, of Grand Rapids, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, October 24, 2025. Russ volunteered on many charitable foundation boards and served in any way possible at his church. He enjoyed photography and was an avid Detroit Tigers fan. Russ served in the US Army during the Korean War. He loved spending time with his family and assisting them with any project that they had for him. His family will always remember his sense of humor and his forever smile. Russ was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy; eight siblings, including his twin brother, Wayne. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Cheryl (Stan) Newman, Lori (Dan) Karel, Douglas (Carol) Watkins, Daniel (Brenda) Watkins; 13 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. The family will greet visitors on Friday, Oct. 31, from 5 to 7 pm at the Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th Street, SE, Grand Rapids, and on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 10 to 10:45 am at Good News Baptist Church. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM, Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Good News Baptist Church, 6830 Eastern Ave., SE, Grand Rapids; with Rev. Brian Cederquist officiating, Interment will be in Blain Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Russ, can be made to the Beacon Hill Foundation or to Good New Baptist Church.