Ralph Van Watkins

Ralph Van Watkins, age 66, of Florence, passed away at North Alabama Medical Center on Friday, January 6, surrounded by family members. He is predeceased by his parents, Homer and Velma (Heupel) Watkins; two brothers, Lee Watkins and William H. (“Pete”) Watkins; a sister-in-law, Barbara Watkins; a nephew, Tony Watkins; and a brother-in-law, Bobby Hudson. He is survived by three sons: Brian (Beth), Nicholas (Kayla) and Benjamin; and by five grandchildren: Jaxson, Jakeb, Jaelyn, Torren and Asalyn Watkins. He is also survived by four sisters: Stella W. Sherrod (David), Pat W. Warren (Billy), Euna Hudson and Linda W. Daniel (Walt); and by a host of nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, friends and former work associates. Ralph was a graduate of Waterloo High School and attended the University of North Alabama. Growing up on the family farm, he loved all things in the world of nature: trees, plants, animals and birds (especially hummingbirds). His hobbies included stamp and coin collecting, fishing, hunting, cooking and cheering on his favorite sports teams, especially the Auburn Tigers. He was a member of the Church of Christ. As a final act of true charity, he donated his corneas so someone else’s vision might be improved. A memorial service for Mr. Watkins is scheduled for Saturday, January 14, 3:00 p.m. at Magnolia Church of Christ, with burial in the Watkins family cemetery on County Road 158.

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