William E. “Bill” Watkins
Retired Worcester District Court Facilities Manager
William E. “Bill” Watkins, age78, a resident of Dracut over 50 years, formerly of Tewksbury, passed away at the Lowell General Hospital on Friday, April 18, 2025.
He was the beloved husband of Patricia A. (Beattie) Watkins, with whom he would have celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary on June 29, 2025, and the devoted and loving father of Brad W. Watkins, of Dracut.
Born in Medford on February 19, 1947, he was the son of the late Ralph and Pearl (Brewster) Watkins.
He was also the son-in-law of the late Tom and Dot Beattie.
Bill was raised in Tewksbury and graduated from Tewksbury Memorial High School in 1965.
In 1967, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Vietnam War aboard the U.S.S. Plainview and the U.S.S. Butternut. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal for his active-duty service.
Prior to his retirement, he was employed in facilities management at the Worcester District Court House and previously worked at Wang Laboratories in Tewksbury.
Bill enjoyed playing and following sports, especially golf. He and his golf buddies played many area golf courses including Four Oaks Country Club, where he shot a “Hole in One” the highlight of his golfing career!
In addition to his wife and son, family members include his late sister, Gail (Watkins) Sundgaard. Bill was the brother-in-law of Joan (Beattie) Aggott and her late husband Edward, of Dracut, and the late Judy (Beattie) Harris and her late husband Joseph.
He loved his nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews dearly. The times he shared with them brought him much joy and laughter.
Billy treasured his many cousins on both sides of the family, which he considered his own brothers and sisters. He held those memories close to his heart. He always enjoyed the many times and laughs he had with his dear friends.
Calling hour Monday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee St., Tewksbury, followed by a graveside service at Tewksbury Cemetery, 172 East St., Tewksbury. Due to family allergy, please OMIT Flowers. Donations to the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts at www.biama.org or to American Lung Association at www.lung.org are requested.