WATKINS,
Thomas Edward Sr., of Mechanicsville, Va., Tommy left this earth to be
with his Heavenly Father on June 23, 2014. He was born on March 29,
1942. He was preceded in death by his mother, Emma Jane Guerrant;
father, Edward L. Watkins; and an infant son. He is survived by his
loving wife, Elizabeth Ann Hudert Watkins; his sister, Kathleen Watkins
Tyler and her husband, Fred Tyler Jr.; his children, Thomas E. Watkins
Jr. (Brenda), Cheryl W. Furr (Gary), Melanie W. Warren (Roy), Tracy E.
Watkins ( Michelle), Jeanine W. Layton (Brian), Jessica E. Dennie (Joe)
and James C. Lord (Shelly); and many grandchildren, great-
grandchildren, nieces, nephews and close cousins. Tommy retired after 22
plus years with the USPS. He held several patents at the post office
for the many parts he developed over the years. He always enjoyed the
challenge of learning something new. Tommy's friends are often quoted
stating, "What a smart and talented man!" He had a strong love for
technology, mechanics, music and fishing. In his early years, he devised
and invented many creative adventures with his best friend, Teddy
Frederickson. And later owned S&W High Performance and a shared
passion for award winning drag racing with his friend Glenn Stone. In
recent years, he renewed that love of mechanics and racing with good
friend, Chester Houghtaling. Tommy will be greatly missed by his family
and friends. A memorial and celebration of life will be held at a later
date. In lieu of flowers, any memorial contributions may be made to
Elizabeth A. Watkins.
