Cecil Lamar “Shot” Watkins, 69, passed away at his home in Springfield, Louisiana, Wednesday, August 24, 2016, after a battle with cancer.
Shot was born October 15, 1946 in Ringgold, Mississippi. Shot served his country in the Navy during the Vietnam War. While in the Navy, he learned to work with hydraulics. After the war, Shot was an innovator and a well-respected member of the Hydraulic industry worldwide.
Shot retired, in 2000, to the Tickfaw River. He became a loved and treasured character among his “River Family.”
Shot enjoyed racing cars, boating, watching football and gambling. He was a fun and interesting storyteller. Shot loved people, never met a stranger, and never forgot a name, face, or who your Mama and ‘dem were.
Shot was an amazing man; brilliant, ornery, funny, kind and generous. He was a genuine soul filled with life, love and adventure. All who knew him were blessed to call him friend, father, or husband. He lived life to its absolute fullest.
Shot is survived by his wife, Fran Watkins; daughter, Carey Bellamy and her husband Samson Bellamy of Pelahatchie, MS; daughter, Roxanne Swartzentruber and her husband Clair Swartzentruber of Fruita, CO; daughter, Marie Forbes of Springfield, LA; grandson, Noah Bellamy of Pelahatchie, MS; sister, Betty Dobbs; brother, Travis Watkins and his wife Billie Marie Watkins, numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Austin and Annie Myers Watkins; brothers, Buddy and Billy Watkins; and sisters, Evelyn Gould and Patsy Rowell.
A “Celebration of Life” Ceremony will be held at Lagniappe Steak and Seafood in Springfield, LA, Saturday, September 17, 2016 from 3 to 5:00p.m.
A Memorial Service will be held at Wolf Funeral Home in Lake, MS, Saturday, October 1, 2016, at 4:00p.m.