Randy James Watkins, 63, of Cullman, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. Randy was born on September 21, 1962, at Cullman Hospital to Robert Archie and Onzell Margieree (Kelso) Watkins. A 1980 graduate of Good Hope High School, he began working full time while continuing his education at Wallace State Community College and later at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Randy dedicated the final 26 years of his career to BASF in Huntsville before retiring last year. During his time there, he built not only a strong career but also many lifelong friendships.
In his free time, Randy enjoyed cooking, cheering on the Crimson Tide (Roll Tide!), and, most of all, spending time with his family and friends. He had a generous spirit and loved opening his home to host gatherings and holidays where everyone was always welcome. Randy never met a stranger and had a way of making people feel at home.
Randy will be remembered most for his warmth, kindness, and the deep love he had for his family. One of Randy’s final wishes was that everyone would come to know Jesus
Christ as their Savior, just as he had. His faith brought him comfort and peace, and he hoped others would find that same assurance in their own lives.
Visitation will be held Thursday, March 26, 2026, the evening before his service, from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m., at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home. The funeral will take place the following day, Friday, March 27, 2026, at 3 p.m. in the chapel, with his dear friend Bro. Tim Kelly officiating. Randy will be laid to rest at Good Hope Cemetery.
Randy was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Robert Wayne Watkins and John “Johnny” Edward Watkins; sisters, Margie Hill and Bonnie Watkins. He is survived by his sisters, Linda Sue (Herman) Haney and Betty (Ricky) Smith; aunt, Mary White; nieces, Brittney (Anthony) Blackmon, Michelle (Daniel) Todd, and Windy (Stephen) Todd; nephews, Ricky Farr, William (Alice) Haney, and Robert (Jacob Motes) Smith; special great-nephew, Lane Blackmon, and a whole host of great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great-nieces.
Cullman Heritage Funeral Home is overseeing his arrangements.
