Patrick "Pat" Watkins

Patrick Thomas Watkins, age 67, of the Rocky Ford area in Cherokee County, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Pat was born on May 21, 1957, in Sacramento, California, to Rothel and Betty (Cantrell) Watkins. He spent most of his life in the Tahlequah, Oklahoma area and graduated from Tahlequah High School with the Class of 1975. He later earned an Associate's Degree in Automotive Technology from OSU Tech in Okmulgee.
Pat attended Liberty Church near Lowery, Oklahoma in his youth-where he also met the love of his life, Ruby Rosetta Barnett. Their dating time and love story began with long walks from Tahlequah to Rocky Ford just to see her. On September 20, 1975, they were united in marriage at Liberty Church and went on to share nearly 50 wonderful years together.
Pat began his career working at a Chevrolet dealership in Tahlequah. Over the years, he applied his skills and dedication at JerCo in Peggs, Telco in Pryor, and later retired as a Quality Control Supervisor from Express Metal Fabrication in Locust Grove. Known for his strong work ethic, Pat always worked hard to provide for his family.
Outside of work, Pat found joy in many hobbies. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and had a knack for leatherwork, crafting everything including wallets, keychains, holsters, and knife holders. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and target shooting. A true craftsman at heart, he built model boats and cars, and was also known for his culinary talents-especially his famous hog frys and cornbread. He even took pride in processing his own meat.
Pat had a playful spirit and was a favorite opponent in family game nights-particularly Monopoly, where he proudly held the title of "champion." He will be remembered for his sassy humor, loving nature, and orneriness that brought laughter and warmth to all who knew him.
Patrick is survived by: his wife: Ruby of the home; 5 children: Christopher Michael Watkins and wife Shannon of Rocky Ford, Oklahoma, Selena Michelle Powers and husband Ronnie of Oaks, Oklahoma, Allen Watkins of Rocky Ford, Oklahoma, Jeff Forrest and Kylee of Coweta, Oklahoma, and J.T. Watkins and fiancé Rachael of Rocky Ford, Oklahoma; 9 grandchildren: Shawnie Kirby and husband Billy of Claremore, Oklahoma, Krishton "Boo" Watkins of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Brixey Watkins of Claremore, Oklahoma, Robby Watkins of Ponca City, Oklahoma, Jaxon Powers of Oaks, Oklahoma, T.J. Watkins of Rocky Ford, Oklahoma, Ryker and Grayson Forrest of Coweta, Oklahoma, and Rory Watkins of Rocky Ford, Oklahoma. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of friends who will miss him dearly.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Rothel and Betty Watkins; his triplet brothers who passed at birth; his sister, Barbara Watkins; and his uncle, Bill Watkins.
A memorial service celebrating Pat's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 11, 2025, at the Locust Grove Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Phred Spodnick officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the care of Locust Grove Funeral Home.