John Dowd Watkins, born August 26, 1961, passed at North Oaks Medical Center on February 6, 2024 after a severe illness.  He is preceded in death by his father, Robert P. "Buddy" Watkins and his mother, Joan Watkins of Amite.  He is survived by his 3 brothers, Perrin (Ann), Robert (Kathy), and William (Patricia).  He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

A client of Options for many years, John was well taken care of by his family and his loving caretaker of 20 years, Deanna Savage.  The family would like to thank Deanna, Lydia, Tasha, and LaTasha for the many years of care and love they gave John and to thank anyone else at Options that contributed to his care.  The family would also like to thank all the workers at North Oaks Hospital for the care John was given in his final week of life.  They did an excellent job in attending to his needs and the needs of the family.

A graveside service will be held at the Amite Memorial Gardens on South Laurel at 1:30pm on Saturday, February 10 where John will join his parents in the afterlife.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Amite or Options. Arrangements are being handled by McKneely Funeral Home.