Darrell Royce Watkins, Jr. passed away Saturday evening, April 4, 2015, just moments before the start of a glorious Easter day, at his home surrounded by his loved ones. Royce was diagnosed with brain cancer in June 2013 and he fought this horrible disease with strength, dignity, and an unquestioning faith. For those who knew and loved him, our greatest joy is knowing he is now fully healed and in the arms of our Lord and Savior. Royce was born on Easter day, April 21, 1957 in Odessa, Texas to Darrell and Maurine Watkins. He graduated from Texas A&M University in 1980. He was a true, proud, fighting Texas Aggie and never wavered in his affection for his beloved school. He met his true love, Sue, in Hobbs, NM and they were married on March 6, 1982. He adored her and they shared a marriage full of love and laughter. He set the example of how a man should love his wife. They were blessed to have two amazing children, Andy and Emily, both born in Hobbs. The family moved to Midland, Texas in 1988. Second only to the Lord, Royce's passion was for his family. He loved spending time with them and his highlight each year was attending the Watkins Family Reunion. Royce had many hobbies and loved to play golf, hunt and fish and work on his many collections. Royce was blessed with many good friends. He was known for his lively sense of humor and always had a quip or joke to share with anyone who would listen. He had a servant's heart and was always ready to lend a hand to work on a project, repair anything broken, or build something new. Royce's faith was an integral part of who he was. He loved the Lord, loved reading the Bible, and looked for opportunities to share his faith with others. He was always joyful and his gift was loving people well. His life was his testimony.Royce is survived by his father Darrell (Nancy) Watkins of Clyde, Texas; his mom Janette Watkins of Amarillo, Texas; wife Sue of Midland, Texas; son Andy (Randi) Watkins, of Dallas, Texas; daughter Emily Watkins, of Midland, Texas; brother,Doug Watkins, of Albany, Texas; sister Darla (Dick) Travis of Elm Creek, Nebraska; sister Dana (Toby) White of Amarillo, Texas, many nieces, nephews, and a large extended family.He is preceded in death by his mother, Maurine Reynolds Watkins.The family extends their thanks and appreciation to Home Hospice who provided wonderful care to Royce and support to the family.A visitation will take place Thursday, April 9, 2015 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Nalley, Pickle, & Welch Funeral Home in Midland. Services for Royce Watkins will be held Friday, April 10, 2015 at 10:00 am at Fannin Terrace Baptist Church, in Midland.Memorials may be made to either Young Life, 925 W. Wadley Ave, Midland, TX 79705 or Home Hospice, 200 W. Illinois, Ste. 190, Midland, TX 79701.Royce was a wonderful husband, father, brother and friend. He was truly one-of-a kind.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.,
