Tommy Joe Watkins

Tommy Joe Watkins was born December 2, 1975 in Claremore Oklahoma, to Ronnie and Rhonda (Mizer) Watkins. He was raised in both Laverne Oklahoma and in Chelsea where he attended school, was active in 4H and FFA, graduating with the Chelsea High School class of 1995.

Tom was employed about 20 years with Erlanger Tubular / Ipsco at the Port of Catoosa. He loved animals and living in the country. He also enjoyed his lawnmowers and John Deere tractor. He was a hard worker and in his spare time enjoyed watching movies and playing board games with his children.

Tom married the love of his life, Heather Dodd, on April 7, 2012 and they made their home in Bushyhead. If you met Tom on the street, you likely saw a million dollar smile on his face, as he took this “pursuit of happiness” thing quite serious. He faced a lifetime of challenges and knew what it was like to be knocked down in life, but he also knew how to get back up and keep on going. He was a jokester and a little ornery. A devoted husband and father, Tommy loved life, had a gentle nature about him, especially with children, and loved nothing more than his own.

He passed away unexpectedly Sunday May 27, 2018 in Claremore. He leaves behind his loving wife Heather, parents Ronnie and Rhonda Watkins of Bushyhead, brother Charles (Chuck) Watkins and wife Andrea of Chelsea, children: Cody Watkins, Westin Watkins, Joesiah Watkins, Katelynn Sample, grandchildren: Kenzie and Grayson. He is also survived by grandmothers: Betty Watkins of Chelsea, Odessa Mizer of Bushyhead, father and mother-in-law Allen and Marilyn Dodd; Uncles, Aunts, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, other relatives and many friends.

Tommy was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Joe Watkins, Hoover Mizer and brother-in-law Matthew Dodd. He will be laid to rest in the Mizer Family Cemetery near his home.