KEITH ANTOINE WATKINS, JR.

We regret to announce the passing of Keith Antoine Watkins, Jr. 47, of Fort Lauderdale, FL formerly of Cordesville, SC who entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 in Florida. 

LIFE REFLECTIONS OF MR. KEITH A. WATKINS, JR.

Keith Antoine Watkins Jr., was born on November 3, 1975 to Major Keith A. WatkinsSr. (Ret. USAF) and Dr. Helen D, Newton MD at Misericordia Hospital located in the Bronx, New York. Keith lived in South Florida for the past 29 years, most recently living at 1317 NE 15th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale. The Lord called him home suddenly on August 23, 2023. 

Keith attended St. Anthony’s Grammar School and graduated rom St. Raymonds High School for Boys located in the Bronx, New York. He attended the University of South Florida where he studied Business from 1993-98. 

As a believer in Christ, Keith was baptized at the New York City Church of Christ in 1989. He still enjoyed discussing Scriptures and always went to the Bible with challenges of life. 

While Keith was never married, we acknowledge his relationship with Elizabeth Guerzon Donaldson, as the mother of his only child, Gabrail Guerzon Watkins. We also acknowledge his friendship with Jennifer Mantilla.

Keith was diligent and loyal in his career. Heworked at LA Fitness for 17 years spending the last 5 years as General Manager. 

He was an avid lover of all water sportsincluding boating, sailing, swimming, and jet skiing. Keith has jet skiied from West Palm Beach to Miami more than once. He was an avid foreign car collector. He enjoyed the company of good friends and wouldn’t mind eating sushi, crab legs or chicken wings everyday!

Keith was a gentle spirit who avoided contention. He was very kind, friendly, affectionate, humble and fun loving: with a ready smile, warm hug or a firm handshake. He was outgoing, pleasant, and very persuasive. These natural traits made him a great salesperson and ultimately a great General Manager. 

Keith is predeceased by his grandparents Evelyn Newton, Lloyd Newton, Cecile Serrano and James Watkins.

Viola Newton is currently living in Marietta Georgia. 

Keith is survived by 1 son, Gabrail Guerzon Watkins, his mother, Helen Newton, His father, Keith Watkins; he leaves 2 siblings, his brother, Adetunji Wesley Okunyade, and sister, Kelliann Watkins along with her spouse Abraham:daughter, Abryn, 3 sons, Abrahm, Aubrey, and Abel.

Aunts: Jacqueline Newton-Kowalsky and Angela King

Uncles: Lloyd Newton Jr, (D), Craig Newton,Leslie Govan (D), Peter Kowalsky

Great Aunts: Helen Akuley, Sally Ellerbee, Brenda Jackson, Earlene Miles

Great Uncles: Harold Green, Arthur Miles, Rickey Del Prado, Walter Ellerbee (D), Chuck Jackson

First Cousins; Mercedes Dunlap, Justin Kowalsky, Leslie Govan Jr, Nico Govan,Howard Lee Jr. 

And a host of second and third cousins.  

Keith will be flown back to South Carolina to be laid to rest. Continue to his son, parents and family in prayers as they travel back to SC.

Arrangements have been Entrusted to McWhite’s Funeral Home, 3501 W. Broward Blvd. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312 and Divinity Mortuary.

SERVICE DETAILS BELOW:

Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at 9:30AM at Payne Cemetery, Cordesville, SC. Rev. Jessie Simmons - Eulogist

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.