Rufus Watkins Jr.

Our beloved Rufus Watkins Jr. transitioned from this life to Glory on Sunday, August 9, 2026. He was born in 1946 in Jackson, Mississippi to Rufus and Florence Watkins Sr. Though born in Mississippi, the family moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he spent his childhood and formative years. While navigating his young adult life, Rufus decided to pursue a career with the Marine Corps. It was during this time that he met his “First Love”, Jacqueline Potts. To their beautiful union, four children were born: Todd, Wesley, Kristy, and Angela. Rufus and Jacqueline enjoyed raising their family and creating milestones. To this day, their children share stories of their parents' journey through photos and reminiscing about memorable times. During their empty nester years, Rufus’ love, Jacqueline passed away from illness surrounded by family. Serving proudly in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam era, he traveled extensively and was awarded numerous honors. Some of those honors are: the Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation with one bronze star, Navy Unit Commendation, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with four bronze stars, Marine Rifle Sharpshooter badge, Marine Rifle Marksman badge, and the Honorable Discharge Commendation Ribbon, among many others. In 2004, with the blessing of her sons Robert, Fred, Joseph and grandson Trenton; Rufus married his "Sweetheart” Roxanne. A term they affectionately called one another thru out their marriage. She proudly proclaims that for their entire 22 years of marriage her Rufus showed her the essence of “husbands love your wives, as Christ loved the church." (Eph. 5:25) Together, they loved visiting Atlanta, where their blended families would gather and create lasting memories. Although Rufus was known for being a great cook, he enjoyed his wife’s cooking, especially her collard greens, oxtails, and smothered turkey wings. He always looked forward to Roxanne’s holiday desserts, including her “must have” peach cobbler. The couple became known for hosting dessert parties during the Christmas season, sharing food, fellowship, and laughter with family and friends. For more than 24 years, Rufus was a faithful member of FaithWay Community Fellowship, under the leadership of Pastor Horacio and Dr. Gale Hall. In 2020, he was ordained as Deacon alongside his wife Roxanne, who was ordained as Deaconess. Rufus declared it an honor to be a Servant of the Lord. Prior to changing his membership to FaithWay, he was a member of Calvary Evangelistal Baptist Church where he drove the church bus. Everyone enjoyed how Rufus brightened their day and always had a smile on his face. One of his proudest family moments and last acts of servitude included officiating his son Wesley’s wedding to Korina. That memory always brought a smile to his face whenever he thought about it. Rufus was truly honored that Wesley had asked. He had a heart for people. When he wasn't reading, praying, and studying Gods Word, he was calling to check on friends and family.. He also had many hobbies but his favorites were fishing, boating, tennis, cooking, movies, reading, and traveling. His Favorite travels were always Atlanta, Chicago, and Florida. No matter where he was, Rufus was always in search for the best BBQ joint in town. Known for his debonair style, especially his sharp suits, it was a surprise to many to learn Rufus was once a licensed private contractor and owner of his own Home Improvement Business. Although with a smile it's hard to imagine him in overalls; he took great pride in painting, building garages and backyard sheds, home repairs, and knocking down walls. He also worked with Proctor & Gamble and the Naval Shipyard. Most of all, he enjoyed writing insurance and helping families understand the value of preparing for final expenses. Rufus was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus Watkins Sr. and Florence Hill Watkins; his sisters, Eda Watkins and Nora Davis; his first wife, Jacqueline Potts Watkins; his brother-in-law, Lester Potts; and his niece, Marilyn Lawson. Rufus has left behind a legacy of love through his wife of 22 years, Roxanne; his children, Todd, Wesley (Korina), Kristy, Angela, and bonus sons Robert, Fred (Roshonna), and Joseph (Kia); and his pride and joy, his grandchildren: Cheyenne, Zanayla, Cailynne, Asia, Alicia, Ashley, Tyrell, Brieon, Eric, Derek, Trenton (Camile), Triston, Jabez, Christopher, Joseph, Olivia, KiJa, Alexis, and the blessing of 6 great-grandchildren. He also leaves a very special sister-in-law, Patricia Wilson, and brother-in-law, Herbert Potts; both of whom he shared a special bond; two special nieces, Michele Mathews and Deneen Davis; and a host of nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, a host of friends, and his FaithWay family. Though his presence is already missed by all; Rufus’ legacy of love lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Rufus Watkins Jr.

July 29, 1946 - August 9, 2026