David Ray Watkins

David Ray Watkins, 61, of Hiawassee, GA passed away unexpectedly on April 1st, 2024. David was a family man. A man who knew God and followed his heart. David was a builder, a fixer, a giver, a coach, an adventurer, a camper, a doer. He celebrated every moment of every day with love, friends, food and lots of laughter.
David was preceded in death by his father, Carl James Watkins Sr. and mother, Karen Joan Watkins. He is survived by his loving family: His beloved wife of 42 years, Deana Jean Watkins, his two sons Jacob Ray Watkins and Joshua David Watkins, daughter in-law Emily Watkins and three grandchildren Kaja, Willow, and Caleb.
David was born in Salisbury, NC and lived most of his life in Gwinnett County. After graduating Parkview high school, David grabbed fate by the bullhorns and married the love of his life, Deana. They built a beautiful, love-filled life together and were quickly blessed with their two sons. Coaching little-league baseball, weekly bible studies, camping trips and family cookouts
“up on the hill” were abundant throughout his years as a father. David was also a devoted dog lover having saved many rescues and was often picking up lost or abandoned dogs off the side of the road, keeping many and finding forever homes for the others.
In 1980 David began his career at Deutz AG, working his way through many different positions, ultimately settling into a supervisory role. He was well respected as a source of knowledge in his field and it wasn’t long before his colleagues became like family. In 2022, after over 40 dedicated years at Deutz, he and Deana moved to Hiawassee, GA to enjoy their retirement
together.
David shared his love for life with everyone he met. He welcomed laughter and carried it with him everywhere he went along with the many tools and nuts and bolts in his pockets. Always available to lend a hand to help, his true gift was making each of his friends and family feel the love he had for them. His love for his family and friends shone above all else. David was a man of God and truly walked in the spirit of love and shared it with the world. He will be dearly missed by many.

Visitation: Saturday, April 6, 2024 5:00-8PM at Banister-Cooper Funeral Home
Funeral: Sunday, April 7, 2024 at 2:00PM at Banister-Cooper Funeral Home