David Watkins

David Michael Watkins, 53, of Rocky Ridge passed away on June 7, 2025 at St. Charles Hospital. He was born on February 5, 1972 in Fremont to Jeff and Bonny (Aldrich) Watkins.

David was a 1991 Gibsonburg High School graduate. He worked as a truck driver for many years for Lehman Brothers, LLC.David will be remembered for his love of his family and friends. His enjoyed gathering everyone together to host countless cookouts, where he would man the grill eventually leading to fun-filled evenings by the bonfire.

David also liked to go to the races and watch NASCAR on TV. He was a fan of the best racer known to man, Dale Earnheart Sr.

As a amateur mechanic, David was always ready to lend a helping hand to his children, whether it was working on projects in the garage or sharing his knowledge and skills. His patience and encouragement inspired those around him, and he will be dearly missed for the countless moments he spent mentoring and supporting his family.

He married Phylis Marty (Brockschmidt) on August 22, 2009, but was her partner for 28 years.

Surviving in addition to his wife Phylis are his children Matt Watkins of Fostoria, Christie (Robert) Watkins-Darr of Clyde, Mia Watkins and Thaeden Watkins both of Rocky Ridge; parents Bonny Ashley of Moulton, AL and Jeff (Linda Roberts) Watkins of Gibsonburg; grandchildren Benton, Sophia, Arionah, Jarrett, Kingsley, and Nathaniel; siblings Jeff (Becky) Watkins Jr, and Mike (Tina) Watkins all of Gibsonburg; step-sibling Melinda (Dwayne) Thompson of Moulton, Alabama, and Robert (April) Ashley of Wooster, Ohio, Tony (Bev) Ward of Youngstown, Ohio, Melina Morrison of Cleveland Ohio, several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his children Landan and Piper Watkins; step-dad Wayne Ashley; brother Kevin Ward; step-siblings Kenneth Jr, Marie, and John; nephew Sean Watkins; grandparents Ruth and Edward Aldrich and Patricia (Jim) Garza; and many aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 from 2-6PM at the Herman-Veh Funeral Home & Crematory. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at Scott Trinity United Methodist Church, Risingsun at 11:30 AM with Pastor Dr. Keith Norwalk officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family, care of Phylis, the DDX3X Foundation or plant a tree in honor of David.