W. Watkins

W. Fred Watkins, 81, of Bainbridge, GA, passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2016.The funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 30, 2016 at Ivey Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Bob Nipper officiating. Interment will follow at Cool Springs Cemetery.The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.iveyfuneral.com . Memorial donations may be made to: Gentiva Hospice, 432 East Shotwell Street, Bainbridge, GA 39819.Willie Fred Watkins was born May 28, 1935 in Cairo, GA, the son of William Henry Watkins and Roxie Lashley Watkins. He lived most of his life in Decatur County and retired as a welder with Harrison Ellis in Cairo, GA. Fred was a member of Faith Valley Assembly of God in Cairo. Fred faithfully attended Solid Rock Church in Bainbridge. He loved the outdoors and spent his days gardening or fishing. Survivors include his wife of 34 years, Fannie Glisson Watkins; his children, Freddie "Donnie" Watkins of Bainbridge, Rhonda Lynn and her companion, Buck Alday, of Early County, Ronald Fred "Ronnie" Watkins and his wife, Monica of Atlanta, Debbie Wilson also of Bainbridge, Billy Lollie of Sneads, FL, and Joe Lollie of Grand Ridge, FL; his17 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Fred was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Peggy Salter.