John David Watkins

TUSCALOOSA | John David Watkins, age 68, of Tuscaloosa, died August 12, 2015, at DCH Regional Medical Center.
John was born in Fayette, AL. on April 28, 1947. John was a graduate of the University of Alabama. He retired with 25 years of service from the Tuscaloosa Police Department with the rank of Lieutenant in CID and continued his law enforcement career with the Fayette County Sheriff's Department until 2001. John was a Purple Heart recipient while serving in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was a member of St. Mark United Methodist Church.
John shared much love and laughter as a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He had the gift of making everyone feel like family.
John is preceded in death by his parents, Gertie Watkins and George C. Watkins; and brothers, Garry Watkins, James Watkins and Homer Watkins.
Survivors include his wife, Margaret Sibley Watkins; daughters, Stephanie Elmore (Keith) and Emily Watkins; son, Tyler Watkins (Kristin); grandchildren, Brayden Elmore, John Nevin Elmore, Julia Elmore and Brody Watkins; brother, Ray Watkins (Brenda); sisters-in-law, Mary Sue Watkins and Sara Watkins; and many special nephews and nieces.
Special thanks to dedicated caregivers, including George, Johnnie and Ann.
Services are being held Sunday, August 16, 2015, at St. Mark United Methodist Church, Northport, AL at 2 p.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service. Graveside to follow at Boone Cemetery in New Lexington Community. Arrangements are being handled by Nelson Funeral Home of Fayette, AL.
Active pallbearers will be Keith Elmore, Tim Watkins, Dyer Moore, Archie Farr, George Weatherspoon, and Bruce Higginbotham.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to St. Mark UMC in Northport.