James Lee Watkins

     James Lee Watkins, 69, of Rutherfordton, passed away Sunday, November 13, 2022, at Accordius Health of Hendersonville.

     James was born in McDowell County, NC, on May 11, 1953, to the late Robert and Lillian Lucille Watkins. He was a member of Green Hill Baptist Church in Rutherfordton and was married to Elizabeth Ann Whiteside Watkins. He served his country proudly in the United States Army. James was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, panning for gold, gardening, picking blueberries, and woodworking. Most of all, James loved spending time with his family. He will be greatly missed.

     In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by a brother, Leonard Watkins.

     Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Elizabeth Ann Watkins; four step children, Dennis Brown, Velva Rowe (Peter), Meri Brown, and Stephanie Curry (Wesley); two sisters, Ruby Jane Clark (James) and Elizabeth Renee Watkins; ten grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

     A celebration of life service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, November 19, 2022, at Green Hill Baptist Church Family Life Center, located at 1941 US-74 Alt., Rutherfordton, NC 28139. Rev. Matthew Moore will officiate.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Rutherford County, 374 Hudlow Rd, Forest City, NC 28043.