John L. Watkins Sr.

John Lynn Watkins, Sr. better known to his friends and family as “Jackie” or “Jack” was born May 3, 1955 in Franklin, Indiana to the union of Sam and Mary Watkins. He professed hope in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age.

John was joined in marriage to his beloved “Kathy” October 22, 1988. They enjoyed 35 years of life together and had one child born to their union, John Watkins II. He attended the Indianapolis Public Schools and was a graduate of Arsenal Technical High School aka “Tech”. He was a long-time member of the Oasis of Hope Baptist Church where he served faithfully as a Deacon and Adult Sunday School Teacher. He also became a member of the Mason Southern Cross Lodge. John had a sincere love of the Word and, as a result of his continued effort to diligently study scripture, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity by Universal Life Church. 

John “Jack” was a Veteran of the United States Marine Corp where he served seven (7) years as part of the Reconnaissance Team. He left the military and went on to work and retire from Allison Transmission/Rolls Royce. He enjoyed volunteering and became a member of the local chapter of the National Association of the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) to give of his time for the important work of ensuring equality for minority groups and citizens in the State of Indiana.

 Anybody who really knew John “Jack” knows that he loved to fish - just for the enjoyment of fishing. He would give the “catch of the day” to other fishermen who enjoyed eating the catch. John owned over 20 fishing rods and did his best to make use of every single one of them. His favorite fishing spot was right here in Indiana on the banks of Eagle Creek. He enjoyed time with other men who shared his love of the sport. Namely, his son, John II; his brother “Buddy” and Nate Oatts (a good friend from church).

 John “Jack” was known to end conversations, rather on the phone or in person, with “holla at ya later”. Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at the age of 69 years, John ended this life with his last “holla at ya later” and is “absent” from his body and now “present with the Lord”. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Sam and Mary Watkins; brothers, Michael Watkins and William Quarles. He leaves to celebrate his life, his wife, Kathy Watkins; his son and namesake, John Watkins II; sisters, Mary Porter, Rosie Jones (Ronnie); Helen Polk (Marvin) and Darlene Nance (Havert Jr.); one brother, James Watkins. A host of nieces, nephews and friends.