Mr. Joe Watkins, 66, of Lawrence, passed away Sunday, March 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family at his home. Visitation will be held at Ott and Lee Funeral Home of Forest on March 31st from 4-8pm. A second visitation will be held at Pine Ridge Missionary Baptist Church on April 1st 9-11a.m. The funeral service will begin at 11am and be officiated by Rev. Bobby Everett, and Rev. Victor Bugg. Graveside services will follow in the church cemetery.

Joe was born on December 30, 1959, to Charles and Lula Watkins.

Joe was a devoted father who loved his children and grandchildren. He loved his family, his church, and his Lord. He was a Christian by faith and was a long-time member of Pine Ridge Missionary Baptist Church. Joe loved his church family as his own and raised his children in the church. He retired after 34 years of service from Peco Foods in Sebastopol as a lead man, which speaks to his dedication and leadership for others. He held his work family close to his heart even after retirement.

He had a passion for the outdoors, he loved fishing, hunting, and enjoying the beauty of God’s creations. Joe always had a smile on his face that could light up any room he entered and was the type of man who never met a stranger. He had a joyful spirit and was known for his love of humor, always bringing laughter to those around him.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents.

He leaves behind a legacy of his children, Tonya Watkins Orr of Newton, and Billy Watkins (LeAnn) of Lake, and a bonus son, Josh Richardson (Jetta) of Lawrence; his grandchildren; Chloe Orr; Taylor Watkins; Ember Bell (Mackenzie), Megan Richardson; a bonus granddaughter, Zae Sharp; three great grandchildren, Benji, Alex, and Kaylee Bell; two brothers, Buddy Watkins (Eva) of Lawrence, and Jimmy Watkins of Philadelphia; nieces, Crystal Collins, Jennifer Baldwin, Tiffany Morrison, Connie Ware, Teresa White, and Lorie McMullan; and nephews, Greg Watkins, and Big Billy Watkins; and a host of cousins and other loved ones.

Serving as pallbearers will be Josh Richardson, Sammy Richardson, Anthony Richardson, Billy Gibbs, Shane Vick, and Mickey McMillan. Ronnie Yarborough will be an honorary pallbearer.

Ott and Lee of Forest is honored to be entrusted with arrangements.