Rudolphus Watkins

Rudolphus Watkins, a cherished soul whose very presence brought joy to all who knew him was born on August 5, 1950, in Talladega, Alabama, to the union of Cliffett Watkins and Florine Stockdale Watkins. Rudolphus, the second son of eight children, who fondly became known as "Rudy," was the shining light in the lives of many. Rudolphus was part of a large and loving family with a strong foundation in the Antioch community. At a young age, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and united with Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. He received his formal education in the Talladega County School System and was a graduate of Talladega County Training School. Throughout his life, Rudolphus pursued a successful career in the construction industry, leaving an indelible mark on all he encountered. Rudolphus loved doing bull dozier work and working on cars where his expertise and skills in mechanics and construction was unparalleled, and his kind heart and warm smile touched countless lives. He worked with many companies, including Brasfield and Gorrie and Russo Corporation, which is where he retired. Rudolphus was a member of the Local Labors Union #559 in Birmingham, Alabama. He was also a sports enthusiast, and his passion for the Alabama Crimson Tide was infectious, embodying the team spirit and solidarity he held dear. Along Rudolphus 74-year earthly journey, he became the proud and devoted father of ten loving children . He adored his children, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren. Rudolphus was caring and loved his children and grandchildren immeasurably. His zest for life and smile could light up the darkest room. Rudolphus would help anyone in need, and he never met a stranger On Thursday, September 12, 2024, Rudolphus "Rudy' Watkins peacefully transitioned from this earthly realm to his heavenly abode while in the comfort of his home surrounded by his beloved family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cliffett and Florine Watkins, brothers, Postdell Stockdale and Alexander Watkins, grandson, Derrion Hardie, and granddaughter, Marika Hardie. Rudolphus leaves to cherish and preserve his wonderful memories, a loving and devoted companion, Catherine Keith; five daughters, Sharon (Starsky) Simmons, LyShawn Lawson, Tammy Threatt, Anita Cunningham, and Tiffany Keith Watkins; five sons, Christopher Swain, Dedrick (Jeanene) Keith, Jeffrey (Rossia) Threatt, Derrick (Tchlandra) Embry, and Michael (Emma) Keith Watkins; bonus daughter, Pamela Caldwell-Tuck; bonus sons, Christopher Waites and Rodney Caldwell; three sisters, Clifferteen Swain, CeCelia Twyman, and Phyllis Morgan; three brothers, Covello Watkins, Byron Watkins, and Roscoe Watkins; thirty grandchildren, Shardae, DeAndre, TaKiyah, Jaleah, Michael, Jr., Destiny, Tyeshia, Candance, Cierra, Nicole, Aliayna, Kendarius, Cortez, BreTyrra, Caitlin, ZaVian, Jeffrey, Jr., JaKobee, JaVonte, Cordell, JaKoree, Shannon, ZaKiya, Kacen, Treazzure, LaDerrick, Darius, Clarke, Alexis, Britney, and Chelsea; tweny-seven great-grandchildren; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends who will miss him dearly. In remembrance of "Rudy", let us reflect on the beautiful moments shared and the love that continues to bind us together. May his spirit guide us through this time of grief, reminding us to cherish each precious moment in life, as Rudy did so effortlessly. Rudolphus Watkins legacy of love, compassion, and joy will forever resonate in our hearts and minds, a beacon of light that will never dim. Though he may have taken his final bow on earth, his spirit will forever dance among the stars. Rest in peace, Rudy, for your memory will endure eternally in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing you.

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Rudolphus Watkins

August 5, 1950 - September 12, 2024