John Edward Watkins was born Friday, January 30, 1953, in Broken Arrow to the late Buster and Jewell (Graham) Watkins. He passed away at his Beggs home on Monday, March 4, 2024.

John was raised in Bixby and graduated from Bixby High School in 1971. John and Janis Asher were married July 13, 1972, in Bixby. He continued his education at Oklahoma Baptist University, receiving a Bachelor of Theology degree. John was an electrician for most of his career and a machinist in his later working years. He loved his sons and loved being outside and doing the Lord’s work. John was thrilled to become a grandfather. He and Janis did most of the remodeling on their homes and shared their skills with others. He was a jack of all trades, and was good at all of them. John enjoyed woodworking and making things for Janis. He loved playing softball and spending time at the lake.

John and Janis were members of Crossroads Baptist Church and traveled around the world on 16 mission trips. Preceding John in death were his parents, Buster and Jewell Watkins; a sister, Yvonne Watkins; and a grandson, Asher Dean Watkins.

January 30, 1953 – March 4, 2024

Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Janis Watkins; two sons, Jonathan Watkins and wife Brittnee and Ian Watkins; a grandson, Christian; and a sister, Jalatta Brown.

Friends may visit the funeral home on Wednesday from 1-8 p.m.

A funeral service honoring John’s life will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 7, 2024, at Crossroads Baptist Church, with Rev. Ben Taylor officiating. Interment will follow at Bixby Cemetery.

Contributions in John’s memory may be made to the Children and Youth Camp Fund at Crossroads Baptist Church, Okmulgee Humane Society or the Okmulgee County Homeless Shelter.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mc-Clendon-Winters Funeral Home of Beggs Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be shared with the family on John’s Tribute Page at www.mcclendon- winters.com.