Robert Todd Watkins, Sr

Robert Todd Watkins Sr. passed away peacefully at his home on November 4, 2024, at the age of 95. He was born March 5, 1929 to the late Robert Hadley Watkins and Mary Christine Todd Watkins and raised in the Derita area of Charlotte, NC. He was active in Boy Scouts of America during WWII and became an Eagle Scout at age 16 in 1945. Robert (“Bob”) was known for his bright spirit, integrity, and unwavering dedication to his family, career, and community.

Bob graduated from Lenoir-Rhyne College with a BA in Business Administration in 1951. His college years were marked not only by academic achievement, but also by his enthusiasm and school pride as a cheerleader. In 1953, he married his beloved Sarah Lee Keener, with whom he had two children and shared 71 years of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

In 1953, two weeks after his wedding, Master Sergeant Watkins proudly served his country as an army paratrooper in Korea, where he managed supply trains and organized a mobile school so soldiers could complete their GED. He returned home and began a long, successful career with Public Service Gas Company in Gastonia, NC. Rising to the position of Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. His contributions to the gas industry extended beyond his role at Public Service, as he also served as President of the Southeastern Gas Association. Bob retired in 1986, leaving a legacy of commitment and excellence in his field.

Bob's dedication to service continued through his extensive volunteer work. He served as president of the YMCA of Gastonia, president of the Lions Club of Gastonia, a Master Mason of the Holland Memorial Lodge 668 of Gastonia (1970), and became a Noble of the Shriners Oasis Temple in Charlotte (1971). He was active in the American Legion and the Lenoir Rhyne Alumni Association. A proud scout all his life, he supported his grandson Daniel Smith through scouting and conferred the Eagle Charge to Daniel 70 years after receiving his own Eagle award. Bob poured his energy into improving his community and uplifting those around him.

In retirement, Bob and Sarah settled in Pittsboro, NC, where he enjoyed the company of his family, especially his grandchildren—Kate Watkins (33) of Arlington, VA; Alex Watkins (29) of Durham, NC; Christine Smith (28) of Salisbury, MD; and Daniel Smith (26) of Atlanta, GA—who were his pride and joy.

Bob was preceded in death by his cherished sister, JoAnn Watkins Walters. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife, Sarah; his twin brothers, Tommy Watkins of Charlotte, NC and Roy Watkins of Mooresville, NC; his daughter, Dr. Catherine Ann Watkins of Winston-Salem, NC; his son, Dr. Robert Todd Watkins Jr. of Chapel Hill, NC.; and his beloved grandchildren. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews. His kindness, sense of duty, dedication, and service touched countless lives and is the legacy he leaves behind for all those who remember him. 

Contributions in Bob’s memory could be made to Lenoir-Rhyne College Alumni Association, Boy Scouts of America, YMCA of Gastonia, NC, or the Lion’s Club of Gastonia, NC.