Tommy Doyle Watkins

Tommy Doyle Watkins, 75, of Youngsville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Wake County on February 20, 1951, Tommy was the son of the late Wesley G. Watkins, Sr. and Sadie Millard Watkins.

Tommy worked ITT and PowerWare before retiring as a truck driver with Whole Foods. Away from work, he found great joy in music. Whether he was listening to his favorite songs or sitting behind his drum set, music was a lifelong passion that brought him happiness. Above all else, Tommy treasured his family. The time he spent with those he loved most meant everything to him, and the memories he created with them will be cherished for generations.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Falls Community Cemetery.

Tommy is survived by his wife of 52 years, Brenda Krockman Watkins; his daughter, Heather Watkins (Kemp Ruffin) of Spring Hope; his son, Bradly Watkins (Shana Dempsey) of Concord; grandchildren, Jamie Lee Cowen, Alexis Cowen, Tyler Cowen, Madison Lynn Ruffin, Junior Ruffin III and Fawkes Watkins; four great-grandchildren; his brother, Wesley Gordon Watkins, Jr. and wife, Judy, of Bunn; his mother-in-law, Ruby Cook Krockman of Wake Forest; and many extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Tommy was preceded in death by his sister, Judith Ann Jackson.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1051 Durham Road, Wake Forest.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Falls Community Cemetery, 9705 Fonville Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587.

www.cswfuneralhome.com