Benjamin Watkins

Benjamin Alford Watkins, 69, passed away Saturday, May 24, 2014. He was born in Ringgold to the late Lloyd and Hazel Watkins on June 6, 1944, was of the Baptist faith, a longtime employee of both Sweetwater and Salem carpet. He loved his family more than anything. He was also preceded ind eath by his brothers, Harold and Gene Watkins; half sister, Juanita Brown. Surviviors include his loving wife, Bille Jo Watkins; daughters and sons-in-law, Diane and Jimmy Maggard, Kathy and Gerry Riddle, Michelle and Chris Bates; son, Brian Ferrell; sisters, Jo Slef, Joyce Epps, Marha Daniels, and Sarah Hamilton; brothers, Randall and Wayne Watkins; nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild and serveral nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 3-9 p.m. Tuesday and prior to the funeral service Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in Salem Cemetery. Online register book available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are by Wilson Funeral Homes, Wallis-Stewart Chapel, Ringgold. 706-935-2331.