Jeffrey W. Watkins

(Barre)
In the words of Paul Harvey, “And on the eighth day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said, ‘I need a caretaker.’ So, God made a farmer. It had to be somebody who’d plow deep and straight and not cut corners. Somebody to seed, weed, feed, breed, brake and disk, and plow and plant. Somebody who’d bale a family together with the soft, strong bonds of sharing.”
Jeffrey W. Watkins was born on Thursday, December 9, 1954, one of eight children born to Robert and Alice (Carleton) Watkins of Canastota, NY. He grew up on a farm and although he held many jobs throughout his life, farming was always at the heart of who he was. He spent nearly 30 years farming for Del-Mar Farms and Kreher Family Farms. He took great pride in his ability to grow just about any vegetable he was asked to grow, whether in his own garden or commercially. One of his greatest joys recently came from growing vegetables that his grandchildren could later harvest alongside him.

Jeff enjoyed many things beyond farming. Over the years, he could be found camping, hunting, snowmobiling, golfing, taking scenic drives through the countryside and neighboring states in search of a good meal, or playing cards with friends. He especially enjoyed his many trips to Michigan, where he treasured time with family and friends and found peace in the beauty and serenity of the Great Lakes. He was also an avid sports fan, with a particular passion for the Detroit Lions, and trips with family to Detroit to enjoy a game were special memories for him.
In his later years, Jeff was especially grateful to Ken Snyder for introducing him to the greatest support group of friends, who became an important part of his life. Whether they were on the golf course or at the Vet’s Club, they laughed together, shed tears together, and always had one another’s backs. Jeff knew that if he ever needed anything, all he had to do was ask. He only wished he could have found them many years sooner.

Jeff is survived by his loving, caring wife and best friend, Sherry (Matthews) Watkins, and his children: Tammy (Erika) Watkins, Jeffrey P. (Helen) Watkins, Sarah (Matt) Knodel, Jessica Watkins, Scott (Amanda) Klein, Kimberly (Sean) Condon, and Nicole (Zack) Chase. He is also survived by many smart, beautiful, athletic and loving grandchildren, whom he loved so dearly and took immense pride in. One of his greatest wishes was to simply have more time to watch them grow, succeed, and find joy in wherever their lives might take them. Jeff also leaves behind George, his faithful golden retriever and constant companion.

His family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caring team at Medina Memorial Hospital and Wilmot Cancer Center for the compassion, support and excellent care they provided to Jeff.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue, Albion, on Sunday, October 11th from 2-5 pm. A private service and interment will be held in Mt. Albion Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Medina Memorial Hospital (https://.orleanscommunity-health.org/grateful-patient-program/). Jeff’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.

To share a special memory of Jeff, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.