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Tom Watkins Obituary

Tom Watkins

May 2, 2025

Durham, North Carolina - Charles Thomas Watkins, age 72, passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025. Family and friends were at his side. Tom had been in declining health.

Tom was a loving son, brother, uncle and father. He was the son of Louise Genevieve Watkins and George Benjamin (Bennie) Watkins of Oxford in Granville County. He is survived by his son, Benjamin William Watkins, of Durham; his sister Carolyn Watkins Cheatham, of Florida; nephew John Cheatham, of Wyoming; nephew Chris Cheatham, of Florida; great-nephew Robert Cheatham of Texas; and great-nephew Collin Cheatham of Texas. Tom is also survived by his former spouse, Eva Moss Watkins, and close friend Mrs. Carrie Taylor; and many other family members and dear friends.

He attended Webb High School in Oxford, as well as Verde Valley High School in Sedona, Arizona. He attended the University of New Mexico where he studied Anthropology. At Verde Valley School he had the opportunity to intern at the Filmore West music venue in San Francisco. He was an avid enthusiast of music and attended many concerts. This love of music continued throughout his life. He also loved to hike the mountain trails around Verde Valley. Music and travel, especially with friends, provided his most loved adventures. He returned to Oxford after college to manage his family farm.

The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers during this time. Tom's loss is deeply felt. A private family service will be held to honor Tom's life.

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

Published by The News & Observer from Jun. 9 to Jun. 15, 2025.

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2 Entries

Carrie Taylor

June 16, 2025

You have my deepest sympathy! I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers always.

Elbert Keith Taylor

June 16, 2025

My thoughts and prayers are you. I will continue to uplift you in my prayers.

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Gentry-Newell & Vaughan Funeral Home - Oxford

503 College St., Oxford, NC 27565

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