MSGT Herbert Louie Watkins, USAF (Ret.), 94

Click link to view Mr. Watkin’s Memorial Video

MSGT Herbert Louie Watkins, USAF (Ret.), 94 of Middleburg, FL passed away Saturday, March 16, 2024.  Mr. Watkins was born to the late, Henry Lucas and Sarah Elizabeth Watkins in Jacksonville and remained in Jacksonville until he entered the US Army.  After an honorable discharge from the Army, he tried his hand at farming but decided to join the US Air Force retiring in 1976.  After retirement, Mr. Watkins began working at NAS until his final retirement in 1991.  He was a member of Russell Baptist Church.

Mr. Watkins was not one to sit idle, he enjoyed working his garden that fed everyone for miles around and was not scared to get his hands dirty.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Mr. Watkins was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Aneta Watkins and is survived by his sons, Tony (Clarissa) Watkins, Michael Ruckel, Billy (Michelle) Watkins, and Larry (Lisa) Ruckel, was “Pa” to several grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Funeral Services will be held 1:00 PM Friday, March 22, 2024 in the Chapel of Russell Haven of Rest Funeral Home with Dr. Ron Baker officiating.  A time of visitation will begin at Noon prior to services.  Burial will follow in Jacksonville Memory Gardens with USAF military honors.

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL  32043.  Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720