Ed was a lifetime member of Oakland Presbyterian church where he served as deacon and elder. He was a veteran and served our country in the US Army when he enlisted in April of 1953 and was stationed in Yokohama, Japan for 17 months.
He retired from Raleigh Linen Service where he served for 33 years in sales and management.
Ed had a love of sports and young people and was instrumental in forming the Cleveland Little League Athletic Association and the initial construction of the fencing, dug-outs and ball park lighting.
His favorite past times were spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a lover and avid supporter of Campbell University’s women’s basketball for over 40 years.
Ed is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Shirley Watkins; son, Edward (Eddie) Lawrence Watkins, Jr. and his wife, Rhonda; daughter, Wanda Watkins; grandchildren, Jessie Brown, Eddie Mack Watkins and wife, Whitney; great grandchildren, Mattie, Shelby, Edison and Maia; and his loving fur babies, Mitzi and Sneaky.
For those wishing to pay respects a time of reflection has been set for Tuesday, September 7, 2021 from 3-5 pm at McLaurin Funeral Home, Clayton.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at Oakland Presbyterian Church at 11:00am. As per CDC guidelines, those in attendance are asked to wear a face mask and practice social distancing.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ed’s name may be made to Oakland Presbyterian Church Building Fund 8927 Cleveland Rd, Clayton, NC 27520 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mclaurinatpinecrest.com for the Watkins family. Arrangements are with McLaurin Funeral Home, Clayton.
