Senior Spotlight: James Watkins

This month’s Senior is a very inspirational person and I am honored to focus the “Spotlight” on Deacon James (Jim) Watkins.

When and where were, you born?
I was born January 24, 1947 in a small town in southwest Virginia called Danville, VA.

What was your wife’s name?
My wife who went home to be with the Lord last October was named Gloria J. Watkins.

How long were you married?
March 1st would have been our 40th anniversary and her 69th birthday.

Do you have children?
If yes, how many and their names. Yes. I have two beautiful and loving daughters named Melissa E. Ferguson and Crystel L. Watkins.

What are your hobbies/interests?
I enjoy traveling (as long as I don’t have to drive) and reading and watching westerns.

Tell us about your life’s work.
After high school I attended Johnson C. Smith University for two years. I then entered the United States Air Force where I was an Oral Hygienist for 15 years. I spent my last 5 years as the First Sergeant for the largest Air Force Medical Center in the western United States. I then entered the civilian work force as a federal employee at Robins Air Force Base where I retired in 2012.

What are your ties with Fellowship Bible Baptist Church?
I am an active participant in the Deacon Ministry, Christian Enrichment Teacher, Music Ministry, Cancer Support Group, Men’s Fellowship and narrator for the
“Passion Play Project.”

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned in life?
Throughout the years, I have learned that patience, understanding and forgiveness are key factors in relationships especially when interacting with young people.

How would you like to be remembered?
I would like to be remembered as a man who loves and serves God. A supportive family man, a man who reaches out to others in need, possesses a good sense of humor and is able to laugh at himself.

What is “your message” to Generations X, Y and Z?
Each of these generations have different values about parenting, education, employment, politics, religion and moral values. They must realize that there is a common thread that will eliminate all differences and conflicts amongst each generation. And that is the word of God. If they read, believe and apply God’s word, their lives and their children’s lives will be enriched.

Written by Elder Isaiah Whittaker, Sr.

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