Edward Arther Watkins of Heavener, Oklahoma was born April 13, 1941 in Heavener, Oklahoma to Clarence Arthur “Buck” and Anna Mae (Crownover) Watkins and passed away on June 15, 2022 in Fort Smith, Arkansas at the age of 81.
He is survived by:
One daughter:
Julie Thomas and husband Brett of Norman, Oklahoma
One son:
Joey and Sandy Watkins of Heavener, Oklahoma
One sister:
Norma Jean Elmore of Frederick, Oklahoma
Five grandchildren:
Terry Watkins, James Watkins, Jodie Allen Watkins, Jake Watkins, and Isabelle Watkins
Numerous other loved ones and host of friends
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Barbara Faye Watkins; one grandson, Eric Watkins; one great-grandson, Bryor Watkins; one sister, Gladys Cryer; and one brother, L.J. Watkins.
Edward was a long-time resident of the area and a member of Independence Baptist Church. He retired from Kansas City Southern Railway, where he worked as Maintenance Away. Edward loved the outdoors especially deer hunting, gardening, and taking road trips with Barbara. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. Edward will be deeply missed by all whom knew and loved him.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Tuesday, June 21, 2022 at the Independence Baptist Church in Heavener, Oklahoma with Brother Mark Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Heavener Memorial Park under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener, Oklahoma.
Pallbearers will be: James Watkins, Jodie Watkins, Jake Watkins, Taylor Cox, Gabe McAfee, and Brett Thomas.
Viewing will be from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Sunday and 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday.
The family will have visitation with friends on Monday, June 20th from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family request you donate in honor of Edward to either Gideon’s International or the Alzheimer’s Association.
To sign Edward’s online guestbook please visit www.dowdenrobertsfuneralhome.com.

