Bobby Fred Watkins, Jr.

Bobby Fred Watkins, Jr., age 68, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, February 23, 2025.  

Bobby was full of life.  He had an infectious laugh, and he never met a stranger.  One of Bobby’s greatest pleasures in life was watching his grandchildren participate in sporting events.  Whether it was baseball, basketball, football, soccer, volleyball, horseback riding or golf, you could find him there with a big grin watching and cheering for their every accomplishment.  He was a family man.  Bobby looked forward to the annual family reunions.  He enjoyed laughing and eating with his cousins; all of whom he dearly loved and respected.

Upon graduating from High School, Bobby went to work for the Kendall Company in Bethune.  He enjoyed his job but wanted something more.  So, after 26 years, he left the company and joined his father-in-law in a floor installation/refinishing business.  He later began his own business in the trade, with his son Bodie.  He took pride in every job.  

Bobby accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of Timrod Baptist Church in Bethune, SC.

He was known to many as “Tutter”, which was a nickname he affectionately received as a young boy.  It followed him into his adult years, and he would often introduce himself as “Bobby, also known as Tutter”.  In his high school football playing days, he was never Bobby; he was Tutter, and was introduced as such.

Bobby is survived by his wife of 46 years, Carolyn Hinson Watkins, and two children Bodie Watkins (Kristin); Megan Watkins Rodgers (Michael).  He was predeceased by his parents, Fred and Eleanor Watkins.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Tucker Rodgers; Easton Watkins; Trotter Rodgers; Ellie Rodgers; Miller Rose; and Luke Richardson, and Baby Girl Watkins due in April, and a sister, Gail Watkins Horton.

A service to celebrate Bobby’s life will be held Friday, February 28th, at Mt Pisgah Baptist Church, 2140 McBee Highway, Jefferson, SC 29718 at 3:00 p.m. with burial following in the Timrod Baptist Church cemetery.  Reverend Terry Corder and Pastor Jeff Steen will officiate. A time of visitation will be held at Kornegay Funeral Home, Camden, SC, Thursday, February 27th  from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Memorials may be made to Mt Pisgah Baptist Church at mountpisgah.net or Timrod Baptist Church, 4227 Timrod Road, Bethune, SC 29009.

Kornegay Funeral Home, Camden Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

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