Dr. Steven F. Watkins

1940 - 2023

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.