Ronnie Dewain Watkins, 77, of Batesville, AR, died on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. Ronnie was born on August 6, 1947, in Hayti, MO, to the late Herman and Frankie Watkins. He was of Christian faith. Ronnie served his country honorably in the United States Army and he loved to fish. He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Billy and Don; two sisters, Martha Wren and Retta Nahlik; and his grandson, Dustin Herndon. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Connie Watkins; his daughters, Tina Wehmeier (Shawn), and Tammy Metcalf (Kerry); his stepdaughters, Karen Stagg (Brian) and Dianne Herndon (Brent); his sister, Kathy Spinner; 7 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Services are entrusted to Willis Funeral Service of Batesville, AR. Visitation will be Friday evening at Willis Funeral Service’s Chapel from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. The funeral service, officiated by Bro. David Insell, will be on Saturday, also at Willis Funeral Service, at 2 p.m. Interment, with rendering of military honors, will follow at Cave City Cemetery in Cave City, AR. Honored to serve as pallbearers will be Brett Marlin, Brent Herndon, Tony Herndon, Ryan Herndon, Bryson Mohlke, and Brian Barber. The family would like to recognize the staff of Pioneer Nursing & Rehab in Melbourne, AR, as honorary pallbearers.
