Robin Watkins

Garth Robin Watkins, of Henderson, TX, passed from this earth on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at his residence. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 64 years, Gayle Russey Watkins; five children- Elaine, Jim, Stephen, Jennifer, and Kelly-and five grandchildren: Jesse David, Anneliese, Mariana, Tate, and Harper, who gave him his favorite title, "Pappy." He is also survived by his beloved siblings: sister Mary Lu Davis, twin brother Robert Watkins, and younger brother David Watkins. He was preceded in death by his father, Garth F. Watkins; mother, Mildred Steeley Watkins; and eldest brother, Richard Watkins. Robin was born in Arlington, TX, on February 27, 1939, to Garth and Mildred Watkins, alongside his twin brother, Robert (Bob). He was raised with a strong faith, an even stronger work ethic, and deep love for family. He graduated from Polytechnic High School in Fort Worth in 1957 and went on to study business at the University of Texas. He served in the United States Army Reserves as a Private First Class from 1960 to 1961. He met his future wife while attending school and managing Cow Town Bowling Alley in Fort Worth. Robin was her younger brother Bobby's manager, and upon seeing Gayle pick him up from work, he knew he had to meet her. After asking her to have coffee and just three official dates, he proposed with a ring he had designed especially for her. They moved their wedding date up to December 30, 1960, so they could marry while he was on leave-unable to wait until their original June date. They welcomed their first daughter, Robin Elaine Watkins, in April 1962, and went on to raise four more children. They lived in various towns across Southeast and East Texas while Robin worked as Area Manager for Martin Theaters, eventually settling in Henderson in 1984. There, he opened Cinema 3 and later a chain of video stores and finally working for Golden Corral. Robin was a dreamer. He was sharp, funny, and loved people. He enjoyed sports, working in the yard, reading, movies, popcorn, and Blue Bell ice cream. Though not wealthy by traditional standards, he was rich in love and respect from all who knew him. Of all his accomplishments, his greatest role was being a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle, and friend-and he excelled in each. He modeled love and commitment for his sons, grandsons, and sons-in-law, showing them what it meant to be a true partner and teammate. As a father, he offered his children unwavering love, guidance, and security. He was a proud son, a dependable friend, and a man of quiet faith, strong moral conviction, and unshakable values.
Robin Watkins was everything a good man should be. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Bill Kuykendall officiating. There will be a time of visitation from 1-2 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the funeral service on Thursday. Pallbearers are Jim Watkins, Stephen Watkins, Jesse David Chang, Enrique Torres, Douglas Watkins, Darryl Alexander, and Rick Bruner. Honorary pallbearers are John Robert Watkins, Chase Watkins, Peter Watkins, Mike Adkinson, and Tate Chang. If desired, the family suggests memorial donations be made in Mr. Watkins name to the Ronald McDonald House Charities, Inc., 26345 Network Place, Chicago, IL 60673-1263. A guestbook may be signed at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.