Albert Daniel Watkins, age 78, of Burgaw, North Carolina passed away peacefully  Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare.

Albert was born on July 29, 1945 in Burgaw, North Carolina to the late Pearlie Watkins Sr. and Olie Lambert Gray Watkins. He was the fourth of five children.

He was preceded in death by sister, Nellie Lavaun Watkins of Burgaw, brother, Pearlie Bradford Watkins Jr of Wilmington and cousin Donna Gray Watkins of Atkinson.

He is survived by his brother John David Watkins and wife Jeronia; sister-in-law, Louise Watkins; brother, Joseph Ralmer Watkins and wife Terry; niece Sarah Watkins; nephews Pearlie "Brad" Watkins III, David Watkins and wife Tonia, Jonathan Watkins, Patrick Watkins; grandnephew, David "Will" Watkins, and grandnieces Kailee Watkins and Hailey Watkins.

Albert joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in his youth and continued to believe in Christ throughout his life. After graduating high school, he went to work for the Pender County School bus garage working in the office for 30 years. Upon retirement he got bored and went back to work at Leslie Locke for 20 years before retiring. Albert enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time with his family. He had a great love for Diet Dr. Pepper, Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies and Almond Joys. As with all Watkins he never met a stranger. Albert will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM Saturday June 1, 2024 at Harrell's Funeral Home Chapel. Bishop Donny Brunjes will officiate and burial will follow in Rockfish Cemetery. The family will receive friends at 10:00 AM (one hour prior the service) at Harrell's Funeral Home.

The family wishes to express their thanks to the medical staff at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Northchase Nursing and Rehab, and Lower Cape Fear LifeCare. In lieu of flowers please make a memorial donation to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare 1414 Physicians Dr. Wilmington, NC 28401 and raise your glass of Diet Dr. Pepper to a man who lived a great life.