David Ray Watkins, 66, of Columbia City, passed away at 9:20 a.m. Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Parkview Randallia, Fort Wayne.

Born on October 3, 1957, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was a son of the late Virgil R. and Ruth (Stettler) Watkins. Growing up in Fort Wayne, he graduated from South Side High School in 1976. He continued his education at Ivy Tech, Fort Wayne, studying architecture.

He began his work career with Supermarket Services in Fort Wayne and concurrently with Sears Roebuck on Rudisill. In 1981, he went to work for General Electric, Fort Wayne, and then Burlington Air Express.

On May 8, 2004, he married Teresa Link. They made their home in Columbia City.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed painting and drawing. Varying his subjects through the years, he liked to draw clowns, lighthouses, and, more recently, the grandchildren. Also working with oils and acrylics, he painted an exceptional rendition of the Allen County Court House. When the grandkids came along, they became his focus and joy. He leaves behind his beloved companion, his dog Fawn.

Surviving is his wife, Teresa; children, Andrew R. (Jasmine Weir) Watkins and Amanda R. (Matthew Swindell) Watkins, both of Columbia City; stepchildren, Christopher (Nicole) Bogner of Fort Wayne and Brenden (Adela Haroulakis) Bogner of Columbia City; nine grandchildren; sisters, Sherri (Glenn) Beauvais of Battle Creek, MI and Lisa (James) Young of Fort Wayne; nieces, Cori (Eric) Ammon and Allison (Joseph) Morua and a nephew, Robert Young.

He was preceded in death by a son, David P. Watkins, and a brother, Gregory A. Watkins.

There will be no services. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorials in David's honor are to final expenses c/o Smith & Sons.