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Benjamin Watkins Obituary
BENJAMIN ORESTES WATKINS JR. "Pete"
Dr. Benjamin Orestes "Pete" Watkins, Jr. passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on March 10, 2022. Pete was born on September 26, 1932, in Danville, Virginia. The eldest of three children, he attended Langston High School, graduating in 1949. Pete attended Johnson C. Smith University, graduating in 1953, with a major in Biology and General Science. While at the University, Pete played Varsity basketball for four years and became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Following his graduation, Pete served in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. Upon completing his tour of duty, he moved to Washington, DC where he pursued postgraduate studies in Chemistry at Howard University and at American University.
In 1958, following his postgraduate work, Pete matriculated at Howard University College of Dentistry, graduating in 1962. He served on the faculty of the Howard University College of Dentistry from 1962-1964, in the Department of Operative Dentistry. In 1964, Pete opened his private practice on Georgia Avenue in Washington, DC, where he treated patients for over 50 years. In 1961, Pete married Shirley Ann Smallwood at St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Washington.
Pete was a devoted member of the Howard University College of Dentistry Alumni Association, the Johnson C. Smith University Alumni Association, and the University of Virginia Parents Committee. Pete was a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association, the DC Dental Society, the Robert T. Freeman Dental Society, the National Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Metropolitan Study Club.
Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Shirley Smallwood Watkins; daughter Sheryl Watkins Wilbon (Michael); son Benjamin O. Watkins, III (Natasha); his three beloved grandchildren Benjamin O. Watkins, IV, Nadia Watkins and Matthew Wilbon; sister Consuelo Harris of Cincinnati, Ohio; sister-in-law Mary Katherine "Kit" Watkins of Windermere, Florida, as well as several nieces and nephews and countless friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Columbia Country Club, 7900 Connecticut Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD, Friday, March 18 at 1 p.m. Interment at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, 4001 Suitland Road, Suitland, MD, Saturday, March 19 at 11 a.m. Open to all. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Howard University College of Dentistry, in honor of Dr. Benjamin (Pete) Watkins '62.
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Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Watkins
6 Entries
Holly Taylor
December 1, 2022
Oh Shirley! I know this message is so late, but I am so sorry for your loss. Pete had such a kind and beautiful soul. We miss having Pete stand over the fence and talk to our boys and whistle at Bella. We were blessed to have you both as neighbors and we think of you often. Sending you so much love!
Holly, Lock, Sledge, and Eason
Ronald K. Watkins
March 20, 2022
On behalf of one watkins family too another. I met Dr. Watkins in September of 1978 fresh from Pittsburgh Pa. at his office on Georgia Avenue. I told him I didn't have money to pay but I was in pain and I needed his service immediately. Dr. Watkins afforded me eleven visits and never charged me one thin dime. Dr. Watkins only required that I carry myself with character, credibility and integrity. Dr. Watkins appreciated my honesty and that showed character. Dr. Watkins you touched my soul and I have never forgotten your saying after each dental visit, 'Friendship is Essential to the Soul'. Our personal relationship spanned 44 years with a simple phone call and occasional meeting. Thanks for bring you and accepting me as I was. God called his lawyer ("Vernon Jordan") and now his Dentist home. With everlasting love Ronald Keith Watkins.
Kadidia Thiero
March 18, 2022
My condolences to Benjamin III, Natasha and Family on the loss of your beloved Father, and Grandfather. Rest in Peace Dr. Watkins.
Dr. Tromblay, Dr. Slate and Staff at M Street Dental
March 18, 2022
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Aurelia Martin
March 17, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Frank Titus
March 17, 2022
RIP Ben.
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