James Ford Watkins

James Ford Watkins, age 87, of Centreville, Alabama, passed away on March 2, 2026. Ford was a faithful member of New Life Baptist Church in Centreville. Prior to moving to Centreville, he was a charter member and ordained deacon at Raimund Heights Baptist Church in Bessemer, where he was the first person to be baptized in the church, setting a meaningful precedent for others to emulate. His dedication to the church and his Lord continued as he worked diligently to support the mission and community. He and his wife, Betty, established the church’s Children’s Church ministry and served as youth leaders for many years, guiding and encouraging young members in their spiritual growth. He also taught Sunday School, sharing his knowledge and faith with people of all ages, and played the harmonica to bring joy to those around him.

Beyond his church service, Ford was deeply involved in Little League sports, coaching teams in various activities and positively impacting the lives of many young athletes. His leadership and encouragement helped instill important values and fostered a sense of teamwork among the youth.

Ford retired after more than 40 years working as a pipefitter, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to his profession. In his personal life, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening. However, his greatest devotion, aside from his faith, was to his family, whom he loved deeply and cherished above all else.

Ford is preceded in death by his parents, James Carl and Helen Beatrice Watkins (nie Carroll); sisters, Cathy Atkinson and Kay Black; and brother, Doug Watkins. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 66 years, Betty Jean Watkins (nie Stamps); sons, James S. Watkins (Karen) and D. Brent Watkins (Michelle); daughter, Jeanne Wade (Ray); grandchildren, Matthew Watkins (Lana), Allissa Rodgers (Chase), John Watkins and Savannah Watkins; one great grandson, Wyatt Rodgers; sisters, Caryl Richards (Jimmy), Shirley Mordecai and Clara Edwards; numerous nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Patterson Forest Grove Funeral Home from 11:00 AM until the start of service. Funeral service will begin at 12:00 PM in the chapel with burial to follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery in Bessemer, Alabama. Rev. Ken Blake and Rev. James Watkins officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ford's name to New Life Baptist Church in Centreville, Alabama.

Patterson Forest Grove Funeral Home is honored to serve the Watkins family during their time of bereavement. Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be shared at www.pattersonfuneralhomes.com.

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