Mr. Billy J. Watkins, 86, of Paris, Tennessee, passed away Thursday, February 22, 2024, at his residence.
Billy J. Watkins was born in Paris, Tennessee to the late William James Watkins and the late Nellie Hudson Watkins.
Mr. Watkins graduated from Springville High School, where he was class valedictorian and star basketball player during his junior and senior years.
Billy was a Mason for over 50 years and a Springville Masonic Lodge #130 member.
He worked and retired from DuPont serving some 38 years as an I & E Tech.
Besides his parents, Billy is also preceded in death by his daughter-in-law: Renae Watkins (preceded: 2021); son: Shane McGrady; grandson: Noah McGrady; and sisters: Maxine Charlton and Geraldine Evans.
He married Janice Mabry McGrady Watkins Friday, December 29, 2000, and she survives in Paris.
He is also survived by his sons: Kerry Watkins, Mark (Carmen) Watkins, Keith (Sheliah) Watkins, all of Paris, Kacy (Lisa) Watkins, of Cottage Grove, Chris (Staci) McGrady, of Paris, and Keith (Angie) McGrady, of Camden; 14 grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren.
His funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. Monday, February 26, 2024, at McEvoy Funeral Home, conducted by Charles Cate and Scott Homesley.
Burial will follow the service in Bethesda Cemetery. N
amed as pallbearers are Keith Watkins, Mark Watkins, Kerry Watkins, Kacy Watkins, John Watkins, Levi Rabey, Will Watkins, and Justin Watkins.
Visitation is scheduled for Monday after 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.