Robin Watkins Heath

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robin Watkins Heath, who left this world unexpectedly on December 23, 2025 at her home in Oxford, NC. Robin was born on November 30, 1959 to James and Louise Watkins of Oxford. She was a devoted mother, a loving grandmother, a cherished sister, an affectionate aunt, and a steadfast friend.

Robin's career was one marked by compassion and commitment to others. She dedicated her professional life to serving those in need, with notable tenures at John Umstead in the Psychiatric division and Murdoch Center in the Deaf and Blind Program. Her selfless nature reflected in her work allowed her to see the good in everyone, reminding us all of the importance of kindness and understanding.

An independent spirit, Robin held a Criminal Justice degree from Vance Granville Community College.   She faced life with resilience and a strong will that inspired everyone around her. Friends often remarked on her non-judgmental attitude, allowing her to connect deeply with others from all walks of life.

To describe Robin is to embrace the beauty of simplicity—a quiet and spiritual soul, she shared her home with her beloved dog, Riley, who was as much a part of her family as any human. Robin loved animals and found joy in their companionship.

Her family will remember her as an unwavering source of support. She leaves behind her son, James Michael Heath and his wife, Channing.  As a grandmother, she adored her grandchildren, Callie Grey Heath and Ryan Michael Heath; She is also survived by her sisters, Teresa Watkins Wood and Jamie Watkins Duke (Cecil); and her nieces, CeCe Duke, Ashley Parker (Brian) and Suzanne Wheeler (Dylan). Robin also cherished her great nephew, Dalton Parker, and her great nieces, Ava Parker and Ella Wheeler. Alongside her immediate family, she held close bonds with her aunt, Sandra Green, cousins Jay Wilkerson, Valerie and Craig Womack, and her dear friend Mary Lewis Bowling.

Robin is reunited in spirit with her beloved father, James Dudley Watkins, her nurturing mother,  Louise Duncan Watkins, and her son, Brian Jones, all of whom she held close in her heart.

The footprint Robin has left on this world is immense, as she touched many lives with her kindness and love. Her proudest accomplishments were her son and grandchildren.

A celebration of life service will be held on January 4th, 2026 at 4pm at Gentry-Newell & Vaughan Chapel. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 3 to 4 PM at the funeral home prior to service. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials made in her honor to The Humane Society of Granville County.  

We will forever hold onto the memories of Robin's strength, resilience, and unwavering love. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit will live on in the kindness she instilled in others and the profound impact she made on our lives. 

The Heath family is being cared for by Gentry-Newell & Vaughan Funeral Home of 503 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565. Online memorials may be made at: www.gnvfuneralhome.com