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Dr. Steven F. Watkins

1940 - 2023

Dr. Steven F. Watkins obituary, 1940-2023, Baton Rouge, LA

Dr. Steven Watkins Obituary

Dr. Steven F. Watkins, 83, resided in Baton Rouge, LA, passed away on July 20, 2023 after a long illness. Steven was born on May 14, 1940 to Floyd and Jane Watkins in Amarillo, Texas. Later they moved to Long Beach, CA after Steven graduated from Pacific High School in 1958. Steve went on to study Chemistry at Pomona College in Claremont, CA and graduated in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science degree. After graduating, he continued his education at the University of Wisconsin (Madison), receiving a PhD in Chemistry in December 1967. He spent one-and-half years at the University of Bristol in England as a Post-Doctoral fellow. He then joined the chemistry faculty of Louisiana State University in the fall of 1968 where he remained except for a brief sojourn to Brookhaven National Laboratory and the University of Houston. Steven found his second love-music. He was introduced to choral literature by Bill Russell. He had participated in many choral performances over the past 40 years. Steven received The Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring by the President of the United States of America in May 2005. He later retired in May 2011 from LSU. Steven will forever be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and many more attributes. Steven leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife Vera Watkins, Baton Rouge, La, one daughter Bryn Smith (Adam), North Carolina, sister Linda Pitt (David) Oklahoma City; daughter-in-law Michelle Watkins of St. John, FL; two grandchildren: Nate Smith of North Carolina and Elizabeth (Lizzy) Watkins of St. John, FL; three step-children; Loretta Abrams of Long Beach,CA, Elihue Abrams, Jr.of Atlanta, GA, Eric Abrams of Baton Rouge, La; step- granddaughter Saniya Abrams of Atlanta, GA and a host of nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Jane Watkins and a son Daniel Watkins. The family wishes to thank the staff of Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet, a special thanks to Dr. Tolulope Famuyiro of Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet and Clarity Hospice for the care they provided. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your personal charity. Memorial program will be set for a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Advocate from Jul. 23 to Jul. 24, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Dr. Steven Watkins

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Linda Pitt

Yesterday

I miss Steve every day and pray for him every night. And for Vera too.

Khalil A Abboud

December 18, 2024

I'm Khalil Abboud, graduated from LSU Chemistry under the mentorship of Dr Steve Watkins. I was planning to go back to Lebanon and teach Chemistry at the Lebanese National University. Steve attended a class with me about "Strategies of Teaching". Only Steve would do that. I miss your advices my friend!!!

Linda Pitt

July 19, 2024

I miss my "Bud" more every day and pray the Lord takes good care of him where he is now. I also pray that Vera will contact me as I miss her too!

Single Memorial Tree

Winnie Wong-Ng

Planted Trees

Winnie Wong-Ng

August 3, 2023

I am extremely devastated to hear the sad news of Dr. Watkins´ passing. He was a beloved teacher to many of us. He was kind and was always generous with his time and advice. He will always live in my heart and in my memory. I miss him immensely.

Egypt Young

July 28, 2023

My sincerest condolences to you Loretta and your entire family. I am praying for you all. May God continue to Bless you.

Loretta Abrams

July 25, 2023

Daddy

Words cannot express how much I miss you. You are my first love, and my best friend. Thank you for the amazing hugs, and the most gracious, and sufficient advice. As we try to navigate this life without you know that you will forever be missed. I will forever be a daddy`s girl I love you forever daddy love, Loretta.

Linda Pitt

July 25, 2023

Vera, Steve loved you so very much. We really did have a wonderful childhood, and I have many lovely memories. I'm so glad we were able to see him toward the end -- I'll cherish those moments. We all love you so much and mourn his passing with you.

Single Memorial Tree

Linda Watkins Pitt

Planted Trees

Professor Isiah M. Warner

July 24, 2023

I am very sad to hear this. Steve was a close friend and colleague. I could always depend on him, particularly when I served as Chair of LSU Chemistry. I spoke with him a few months ago and he seemed in good spirits. He was a good man and he will be missed by many. Vera, you have the deepest sympathy of Della and myself.

Claude Davis

July 24, 2023

Thank you for all that you did to elevate underrepresented scientists at LSU, Dr. Watkins. Your leadership, mentorship and passion for chemistry had a profound impact on the success of the program. I will keep Vera and your family in my prayers. Rest peacefully, God bless.

Single Memorial Tree

Khalil Abboud

Planted Trees

Khalil A. Abboud

July 23, 2023

My ideal mentor/advisor, you will be missed. Rest in peace my friend!

ASharp

July 23, 2023

Dear Ms. Vera,
I have come to know you and your dear husband through a mutual friend. I pray for your healing and God's loving and tender embrace during your time of sorrow.
A. Sharp

Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results

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