Vance Watkins

Vance E. Watkins, born on November 20, 1951, walked through Heaven's gates with his Lord and Savior as sunrise approached on July 15, 2024. Vance loved to make people laugh. He could light up any room he was in. He loved to play checkers and horseshoes. He loved gospel music and attending church with his kids when he could. Though he had taken many paths in life, he was led to salvation by his Lord and Savior. He was a Spec 4 U.S. Army veteran. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Viola Watkins, brothers, R.C., J.R., Roy, Dennis, Jerry Dan, and Doug Watkins, sisters, Lucille Mitchell, Willa Mae Watkins and Eula Faye Torbett.
He is survived by the love of his life, Linda Yarbrough, and their children, Alan Watkins, Becky (Randy) Bookout, Stacy Watkins, Julie (Jeff) Cox, Shane Watkins, grandchildren, Makayla (Justin) McJunkins, Brandon (Katlyn) Watkins, Trista (Chris) Walker, Katlyn (Ty) Butler, Tanner (Ashley) Evans, Chloe, Harley, Emily, Bailey, Aubrie and Allie, great-grandchildren, Bryson Watkins, Ella and Olivia Walker, Paisley and Kayson Evans, brothers, John, Joe and Clifford Watkins, several nieces and nephews. The family would also like to give recognition to his special friend, John Peeler.
Funeral 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, Biereley-Hale Chapel, Rev. Don Harris and Rev. Daryl Veal officiating. Interment 1:00 P.M. Thursday, Hickory Grove Cemetery, Rev. Ollie Lankford officiating, with military honors provided by the U.S. Army, Sweetwater V.F.W. Post 5156 and American Legion Post 106. Family will receive friends 6-8:00 P.M. Wednesday at Biereley-Hale Funeral Home, Madisonville.