David Lee Watkins Sr., age 75 of Northern Kentucky, passed away in his sleep in the early morning of September 20, 2024.

David was born to Jack and Doris (Turner) Watkins in Cincinnati, Ohio with his brothers. He was one of five boys and those that knew him would attest to his dark sense of humor. He joined the United States Navy and was honorably discharged after serving our country. As a young man, David was a long haul trucker. He raised his children alongside his wife, Claire Watkins (Kanet). He was a former Mason along with his brother, Jack and gave freely his time and finances to the Shriners Hospital- a foundation he was passionate about. David was a loving grandparent to 13 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death are his parents, his son-in-law, Chris O’Banion, and his best friend, Milton Egner the 1st. He leaves behind sons; David (Christine) Pierson, David Lee Watkins Jr., Daughters; Christine O’Banion, Nicole (Kenneth) Thompson, Adrienne (Justin) Goderwis-Anderson, mother of his children, Claire Watkins, and his beard competition, Brian Teague, brothers; Dallas (Samantha) Watkins, Jack (Jane) Watkins, Ronnie (Vickie) Watkins, and Danny (Kim) Watkins, his grandchildren; Ashley (Kyle) Mason, Kyle Pierson, Brittany Pierson, McKenzie Baker, Charles (Ari) Thompson, Lilly-Ann Thompson, Molly Thompson, Bailey Thompson, Emily O’Banion, Hunter Goderwis, Carson Goderwis, Ethan Goderwis, and Charlotte Anderson, great-grandchildren; Audrey Mason, Dax Mason, Kayce Pierson, and Wesley Thompson, along with a slew of nieces, nephews, and friends.

If you wish to honor the memory of David, please consider donating to the Shriners Children’s fund by clicking here.