Gary Watkins

Gary D. Watkins, 71, of Senecaville, passed away Sunday (October 26, 2025) at The Embassy of Cambridge after battling some health issues over the last several months.

He was born July 25, 1954 in Bloomington IN, son of the late Hezikiah (Robert) Watkins and Betty (Ed) Mirling. He was a 1972 graduate of Meadowbrook High School.

Gary previously worked in the oil field, sold insurance, and was an employee of Go-Mart in Old Washington. He enjoyed watching NASCAR races, the Cincinnati Bengals, being outside, riding the side-by-side, and cooking. He also enjoyed watching game shows and playing along with them. Some of his hobbies included collecting NASCAR diecast cars and memorabilia, putting together and painting models, playing cards, playing games, and doing puzzles. He really enjoyed his dogs and was just as excited to see them as they were to see him. Gary was very quick-witted and always made people laugh. He really enjoyed having a good time. Gary was a lifetime member of the VFW Post #3760.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Ron Watkins; a sister, Lynn Lasko; a great-granddaughter, Emersyn Jo; and a brother-in-law, Tom Moore.

Gary is survived by his wife, Patricia “Patty” Harbin of the home; a daughter, Melissa (Bruce Wolverton) Watkins of Byesville; a son, Brad (Angel) Watkins of Byesville; seven grandchildren, Kelsey (Derek) Muncy, Tori (Karlee) Wolverton, Courtney (Brian) Kendall, Logan Wolverton, Makayla James, Ava Watkins, and Bristol Watkins; seven great-grandchildren, Kimberly Muncy, Kealee Muncy, Derek Muncy, Deaken Muncy, Jaylann Wolverton, Mason Kendall, and Laikyn Kendall; a sister, Cheri Stillion of West Virginia; his mother-in-law, Joann McClelland; two sisters-in-law, Connie Moore and Deb (Quinton) Wamer; a brother-in-law, Joe (Allison) McClelland; a couple special cousins, Deb Bates of Caldwell and Tom Peters of Indiana; his dog and little buddy, Zeke; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

No calling hours will be observed.

A celebration of life and dinner will be held in Gary’s honor on Saturday (November 15, 2025) at the Kipling VFW beginning at 2 p.m. The family welcomes everyone to join them and share memories and stories of Gary during this celebration.

Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Senecaville, is assisting the family with arrangements. Personal condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com