William Donald Watkins

Abingdon, VA – William Donald Watkins, age 72, passed on Friday, June 19, 2020, in Bristol Regional Medical Center.  Don served in the U.S. Army and was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat as well as the Bronze Star.  He was a member of V.F.W. Post 1994, American Legion Post 12, D.A.V. Chapter #57, and the Order of the Purple Heart.  Donald worked as a truck driver for many years and was preceded in death by his parents, John and Anna Lee Yokely Watkins; brother, Allen Watkins; and sister, Julia Alexander.

Don is survived by his wife of 39 years, Brenda Terry Watkins; three sisters, Debbie Damron, Patricia Bebber, and Linda Saddler; and several nieces and nephews. 

Visitation with the family will be held 3-5 p.m. Sunday, June 21, 2020, in the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service.  Funeral services will follow at 5:00 p.m. with Pastor Lyons Smith and Rev. Bill Reid officiating.  A graveside committal service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday in Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Harold Terry, Bobby Cuddy, Scott Harmon, Kimberly Patrick, Kevin Harmon, and Kevin Mason Serving as pallbearers.  Military rites will be conducted by the Virginia National Guard and Highlands Veterans Honor Guard.  Those wishing to travel in the procession to the cemetery are asked to convene at the funeral home by 12:30 p.m. Monday. 

Those wishing to share memories, express sympathy, and send “Hugs from Home” may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guest register. The family of William Donald Watkins is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210, (276) 623-2700.