Mr. Lewis Edward Watkins III, beloved son of Tracey Watkins and Donnetta Corry Watkins, was born in Statesville, N.C., on December 19, 1991. He departed this life unexpectedly on his birthday, Sunday, December 19, 2021.

He was a graduate of Statesville High School, Class of 2002, and was employed as a field technician at James River Ground Maintenance. At one time, he attended Purpose and Life Christian Center in Statesville. His favorite team was the Dallas Cowboys, and he also loved fishing and was a mentor to many people.

In addition to his parents, he is survives by his sister, LaMonica Dalton (Santwan Dalton); his grandfather, Lewis Edward Watkins Jr.; his grandmother, Bernice Watkins, an aunt, Telisha Hunter (Corey Hunter); an uncle, Charles Presie Corry; an aunt, Kimberly Schofield; a nephew, Joshua Dalton; and three nieces, Amaya Dalton, Morgan Hunter and Trinity Dalton; and a host of cousins and special friends.

Celebration of Life Services will be conducted Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at 1 p.m. at Greater New Mt. Olive Holiness Church. Carolyn Morrison is Pastor, Bishop Wilford Walls will officiate and Bishop Timothy Schofield will eulogize. Burial will follow in the Belmont Cemetery.

Mr. Watkins will remain at Rutledge and Bigham Funeral Home until taken to the church to lie in state at 12 noon. Members of the family will receive friends at the church from 12:30 until 1 p.m., but will assemble at the residence, 1911 Greenbriar Road, at other times.

Visit the Book of Memories for Mr. Watkins at www.rutledgeandbigham.com.

Rutledge and Bigham is serving the Watkins family.