Dansville: On August 3, 2021 at age 74, Gary passed away peacefully with his family by his side at his home in Dansville. He was born in Woodhull, NY to the late Harold and Verda Watkins. Survived by his beloved wife of 22 years, Jennifer L. Watkins, his children; Amy (Richard) Neumann, Jennifer (Ryan) York, Adrianne (Brandon) Wilber, Burton (Megan) Price III, and Collin Price, his brother Douglas Watkins, and his grandchildren; Cody, Jacob, Jordyn, Cooper, Chase, Juniper, and Maddilyn, along with many loved foster children, nieces, nephews, and long-time friends Judith Guiles and Randy Dieter.
Gary spent his 46+ year career following his passion for all things railroad. He traveled the U.S. building and maintaining railways and creating many long-lasting friendships along the way. His incredible work ethic couldn’t go unnoticed. His co-workers looked to him for his wisdom, his guidance, and occasionally for dates. Turns out he was a pretty good matchmaker too. (By the way Brandon, you still owe Dad a goat.)
Always ready with a witty remark, his sly smile gave away his playful nature. He lived to make those he loved happy. No family gathering was complete without an unexpected comment followed by fits of laughter from all in the room and Gary grinning from ear to ear over his accomplishment. His positivity was invaluable as he faced an onslaught of medical issues lasting years. He fought through them all with grace and an amazing strength seldom seen.
Most importantly, to Gary family was everything and everyone was family. Never was there a time where Gary would not interrupt his own task to help another in any way needed, whether it was fixing the broken down car of a stranded stranger on the side of the road, or having a long sit down with any one of the many people he held close. All deserved his time, attention and kindness which he gave freely, abundantly and without judgement.
Anyone who knew Gary was aware that they knew someone special. They say that a man is measured not by how he dies, but how he chose to live, not by what he gained, but what he chose to give. By this measure, and all others, he was one of a kind.
Friends and family are invited to come from 5-8 PM to celebrate Gary on Monday, August 9, 2021 at the Dansville Fish and Game Club (upper clubhouse), 79 Gibson Street in Dansville, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to: Ronald McDonald House Charities, 333 Westmoreland Drive, Rochester, NY 14620. To share a memory or a condolence, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com.
I remember when Gary came into our family. He was such a good-natured and welcoming person to talk to. I will remember him as a fun-loving good guy who cared for his friends and family and it was totally genuine. He will be greatly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this tough time.
My deepest condolences to the family of Gary Watkins. I had the pleasure to know Gary back when the girls were little and I was only a teenager. He raised two beautiful young girls into two beautiful young women. He will be missed by all. RIP Gary. You are with the angels now.
God Bless,Lisa C
Heartfelt condolances to the entire Watkins family.
My thoughts are with you Jen and Amy. Your father was a great person. I remember him helping me out many times when we were all neighbors so many years ago. I empathize with your pain as I just lost my father a few weeks ago. All of us are strong, we will get through this and be stronger for it.
My smiling friend, you will be missed. Rest in peace.Jennifer, Adrienne & the rest of family, my sincere condolences on the loss of Gary. He was a co-worker that could bring a smile to your face the minute you saw him. I know he had his struggles but now may he entertain those in heaven with his wit. Much love & hugs for comfort.
Jen, Amy and the entire Watkins family ~ so very sorry for your loss. I feel blessed to have met your dad.
Jen,Evan and I send you our love and condolences as you and your family adjust to this major loss. Remember God has not left you. Just trust the process and remain faithful to His work. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. Psalm 30:5
Uncle you will surely be missed. Tell mom and dad we miss them. Until we all sit on that bench in the sky
My sincere condolences to Jenny and the entire Watkins family at this difficult time. May God give You strength.
So many years have gone by in a flash. It seems like only yesterday that Gary came into my life first as a suitor to my daughter and then as her husband and member of our family. What a happy day that was! I couldn’t have had a more wonderful son-in-law. We could joke around and also be serious (and at the same time at ease in our talks in equal measure). If I could sum up my thoughts about him in a few words it would be to say he was a “good person.” For me that is no idle talk, no small remark. It is a high compliment, for in this daunting world there are very few people who are the “real deal.” Who, when you think about them, really are genuine. You know that what you see is what you get–no hidden agendas, no selfishness, and no pretenses. I, like Gary, am old school and very proud of it and, like Gary, I value my home, my country and most of all my family and friends. A beautiful person has left us to return home to God. He will be greatly missed and will leave shoes that no one else can fill. Rest in peace, Gary (Sonny Boy) and know that we who love you will always hold you in our hearts.
sorry to hear of your loss Amy.
I didn’t know Gary but just reading his obit, I learned about a man who always put others before him. He was an angel sent from God & now that his work was finished God sent him to heaven where he will be waiting for his family.MaryLou
My thoughts and prayers are with the Jennifer and the family. I enjoyed working with Gary at the LAL (Western Track Works). After he left the railroad I would occasionally see him and Jennifer at Walmart and he always had a smile and a hug for me. Fly high my friend
Sending hugs and strength Amy, Cody and family..I am so sorry!
So sorry for your lossWas a great guy
Jen, know that we are with you all in spirit as you celebrate Gary’s life. May he now be at peace and we know he’s always in your heart. Our condolences to your entire family and loved ones.Love, Andrea & Frank