John Watkins

John William Watkins III November 3, 1964 – July 18, 2025 John William Watkins III, 60, of Milton, Florida, went home to be with the Lord on July 18, 2025. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Bethel Baptist Church, 6178 Old Baghdad Highway, Milton, FL 32572, on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 4:30 PM, officiated by Pastor Bobby Bates and Pastor Mark Turberville. Johnny—affectionately known as a man of deep faith and gentle strength—was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, pastor, and friend. He faithfully served as pastor of Bethel Baptist Church in Milton, Florida, where he poured his heart into preaching the gospel and winning souls for Christ. His passion for the Lord and for people was evident in every part of his life. A hard-working man with a servant’s heart, Johnny spent many years as a valued employee of Scott Bridge Company in Opelika, Alabama. He graduated from Benjamin Russell High School, Victory Baptist Academy, and later earned a degree in diesel mechanics from Nunnelley State Technical College. His love for diesel engines was only matched by his love for ministry and his family. Johnny’s eyes would light up with joy when his grandchildren ran through the church doors—even if they darted under his feet while he was preaching. It never disturbed him or the congregation; it only reminded everyone how deeply he loved them and how freely they loved him back. Johnny is survived by his beloved wife, Tonya Owen Watkins, who loved him more than any words could ever express. sister, Tammy (Wayne) Truett He also leaves behind his children: Kimberly (Doug) Pittman, and Bethany Watkins; Stefan Reynolds, Caleb Reynolds, his grandchildren: Logan Watkins, Isabella Valdez, Layken Reynolds, Adalynn Reynolds, Dawson Reynolds, Rhett Moore, Tobias Hart, Vina Hart, and Silas Hart. He is also survived by his Goddaughters: Rachel Robardey Hart, Liz ( Brett) Pardue, and “church daughter,” Kassidy Adams; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles who loved him dearly. Johnny was preceded in death by his father, John William Watkins Jr., his mother, Wyvonne Andrews Watkins, his grandfather, John William Watkins Sr., and his grandmother, Allie Mae Watkins. He was deeply loved and will be missed more than words can express. His legacy of faith, love, and quiet strength lives on in all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Johnny’s GoFundMe account to help with final expenses and continued support. https://www.gofundme.com/f/together-for-johnny-watkins-facing-cancer-headon/cl/o?utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&lang=en_US&attribution_id=sl%3A452cb7aa-0386-4ec4-a6b3-56a4ed690a76&ts=1753228778

John Watkins

July 18, 2025

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

John Watkins

July 18, 2025

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

Obituary Notification