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he was a beloved son with an infectious smile that brightened every room he entered.

Ryan Donta Watkins Jr. affectionately known as RJ was welcomed into the world on August 13, 2009 in Flowood, MS to Ryan Watkins Sr. and Tamekia Watkins. He gained his heavenly wings on July 1, 2026 and entered into eternal rest. 

Visitation will be held at Ott and Lee Funeral Home in Forest on Monday, July 13 from 3pm-7pm. Second visitation will be held at Union Grove MB Church from 10am-11am, with services being held at 11am, officiated by Rev. Rochelle Wright. Graveside services will take place at White Stone Cemetery immediately following the funeral service, where he will be laid to rest beside beloved family. 

He was a beloved son with an infectious smile that brightened every room he entered. Though his time with us was far too brief, the love, kindness, and light he shared will remain forever in our hearts.

 One of his greatest accomplishments was graduating Lake High School a year early, a reflection of his intelligence which made his family incredibly proud. Ryan Jr. lived his life with faith, a heart for serving others, and spreading kindness wherever he went. He served as an Usher at Union Grove MB Church, and faithfully played the drums at Providence Baptist Church. Ryan Jr. dreamed of becoming an aviation pilot, and he looked forward to a career spent in the skies doing what he loved. Although his journey was cut far too short, his passion, drive, and the dreams he carried with him will never be forgotten. His family will always be proud of the accomplishments he made. 

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Though his time with us was far too brief, the love, kindness, and light he shared will remain forever in our hearts.

He will be sadly missed and forever remembered by his Father Ryan Watkins Sr., Mother Tamekia Watkins, Brother Javontae Body (Dyamond), Sister Ryanna Watkins, Grandfather James Watkins, Grandmother Linda Watkins, Uncle Jonathan Watkins (Kimberly), cousins LaDaysha Thames, Jayden and Kayden Watkins, bonus Grandparents Angie Hall (Bennie), bonus Aunts Brittany Harris (Brent), and Morgen Miller, and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, loved ones and friends. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Gregory and Joyce Surrell, and paternal Uncle James Jennings and Aunt Diann Jennings.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a memorial donation to Shower Power, an organization near and dear to the Watkins family in honor of RJ: 

Donations in Memory of Ryan Watkins Jr.

Ott and Lee of Forest is honored to serve the Watkins family during this difficult time.