Tommy Dean Watkins, 81, of Zanesfield, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025. He was born on October 15, 1944, in Middleburg, Ohio, to Avery and Mae (Tennant) Watkins.
Tom grew up in a hardworking farming family and proudly carried on the tradition as a generational dairy farmer after his father. He also served his country as a member of the Army National Guard.
A true outdoorsman, Tom enjoyed fishing, hunting, mushroom hunting, and raspberry picking. He could often be found at farm auctions, raising pheasants and quail, or cheering on the Cincinnati Reds and following NASCAR. He was a proud member of Pheasants Forever and the NRA. Known for his straightforward personality and sharp humor, Tom never hesitated to tell it like it was.
He is survived by the mothers of his children, Janet Shafer and Joyce Dixon; daughters Holly (Richard) Bowman, Heather Watkins (Brian Dowling), Melinda (Mack) Wright, Sarah Flora, and Julie (Greg) Livingston; grandchildren Brittany Polly, Layne (Kassidy) Bowman, Rachel Bowman, Hannah Bowman, Aidan Flora, Lucas Flora, Kenna Wright, and Corinne Wright; seven great-grandchildren; sister-in-law JoAnn Watkins.
He was preceded in death by his brothers Carroll (Goldie) Watkins, Dale (Shirley) Watkins, Wayne Watkins, and Mack (Jackie) Watkins; sisters Ann Karen Watkins, RuthEllen (Doc) Larry, Janet Coleman.
Tom’s legacy of hard work, humor, and love for the land will live on through his family and all who knew him.
A special thank you to Jason and Josh Fairchild, who stood by Tom throughout the years and were like sons to him, always ready to offer their support and lend a helping hand
Graveside services will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, in Middleburg Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Freshwater, McDonald, Vernon Funeral Home.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.vernonfh.com
