Mr. Jesse “Gene” Watkins, age 71, of Hendersonville, North Carolina, passed away on Friday, April 29, 2022 at Four Seasons Elizabeth House in Flat Rock, North Carolina, following a 1 ½ year battle with cancer. Born in Buncombe County, North Carolina on October 21, 1950, he was the son of the late Billy and Sara Hinson Watkins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, William Cicero Watkins and Richard Clark Watkins.
Following many years as a member of United Auto Worker (UAW), Gene had retired from Ford Motor Company. He was an avid fisherman who enjoyed collecting antiques, playing checkers and tending to his yard. Gene absolutely loved staying in touch with his granddaughter, Zoey, if it was talking to her on the phone or by sending her a card.
He is survived by two daughters, Aimee Elizabeth Watkins and Rachel Renee Watkins (Matt); three grandchildren, Brent, Chase and Zoey; one brother, Charles David Watkins (Tammy); and numerous nieces and nephews.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Wednesday, May 04, 2022 between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. in the Kirby Memorial Chapel of Shuler Funeral Home in Hendersonville.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a memorial donation in Gene’s memory are asked to consider, American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma or by visiting www.cancer.org.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Gene’s brother, David, for the extraordinary care and assistance he provided to Gene during his final journey.
Date: Wednesday, May 4, 2022
Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Location:
Kirby Memorial Chapel of Shuler Funeral Home
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Chuck posted on 5/12/22
I was a friend of gene since 1995, I started at ford and worked on his line and we became good friends throughout those years. The last time I spoke with gene was sometime at the end of March 2022. When I noticed his phone was going to voicemail I knew something was not good. My condolences to the family. I'll never forget Gene, and I told him I'd be up there right behind him so keep the gate open for me. Gene was a great guy and great setup guy. I'll miss my friend, god speed my friend.