Virgil Carl Watkins, Jr., 65, of Tampa, FL passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2015 at James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa.
Born in Jackson, TN, he moved here from California in 1972. He retired as a plumber and he specialized in welding and pipe fitting. He contracted with many companies including TECO Peoples Gas for several years. He was an Air Force veteran of Vietnam. Virgil was a member of Prince Hall Masons and Pipe Fitters Union Local #624 in Tampa. He enjoyed reading, westerns, and old movies.
Virgil was preceded in death by his parents Virgil and Mary Watkins, Sr.; three brothers: Clarence, James, and Richard; and sister, Marcella Watkins. Survivors include his devoted former wife, Bernice Watkins; daughter, Vosha C. (Morris Jr.) Harris; two step daughters: Lovonia (Jerome) Scott and Lenshawn Price, all of Tampa; two brothers: Booker Sullivan of St. Petersburg, FL and Travis Watkins of Jacksonville, FL; five sisters: Sylvia Jones of Jackson, TN, Rebecca Watkins of Memphis, TN; Mary Watkins of Columbia, SC, Sudie Watkins of St. Petersburg, and Vondora Watkins; seven grandchildren: Cambre Williams, Raymond Price Murray, Joshua and Gabrielle Scott, Miles and Mikah Jones, and Morris Harris III; and a host of nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to any local veteran association.
My deepest sympathies on the passing of your father. I remember him as a very funny and kind man. The entire family will be in our thoughts and prayers. God bless.
Rest in paradise brother