Michael Eugene Watkins

Watkins, Michael Eugene

Born August 5, 1944, passed away on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at the age of 76 years. He was born in Davenport, Iowa, the son of Merle and Lauretta Watkins. Michael graduated from Hanover Horton High School in 1962. Immediately after graduation he enlisted in the United States Army on June 22, 1962 serving a tour in Korea at a Missile Base. Michael joined the Jackson County Sheriff Department in 1966. During his time at Jackson County he opened up the 911 Dispatch Call Center and earned many trophies and awards for his excellent marksmanship. Michael earned his Criminal Justice Degree from Michigan State University in 1976. He taught classes in Criminal Justice at Jackson Community College. He retired from the Jackson County Sheriff Department as a Sergeant in 1993. After retirement, Michael worked at a private security company in Pennsylvania and as a Sgt. of Arms at the Senate Police in Lansing.  He was a past member of the Hanover Horton Lions Club.

Michael married Carolyn Lawrence on September 22, 1978. She survives him as well as his daughter, Robyn (Brett) Halsey; grandchildren, Michael and Nick Halsey and Betsy Watkins; sisters, Marna (Larry) Fenicle of Arizona, Karen Hileski of Arizona, and Debbie (Or) Smith of Litchfield, Michigan; brothers, Jim (Bette) Watkins of Jackson, Michigan, Murry (Pat) Watkins of VanBuren, Ohio, John (Mary) Watkins of Arizona; and many nieces and nephews. Michael was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Brian; and the mother of children, Juanita Watkins.

He had a wonderful dry sense of humor and an infectious laugh. Michael was a huge MSU fan, enjoyed golfing, traveling, especially his trip to Europe, and most of all spending time with his family and close friends.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at 10:30 AM at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church with Rev. Msgr. Bernard L. Reilly officiating and will be livestreamed on St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church's Facebook page.

The family will receive friends at the Church on Wednesday from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, Tunnel to Towers, or the donor's choice in Michael's name.

Desnoyer Funeral Home
Family owned for 131 years