Mr. Kenneth William Watkins, age 52, of Lithia Springs, Ga., departed life here on earth Sunday, Feb. 1, 2009. He was born Nov. 13, 1956, in Fort Bragg, N.C., to William and Betty Watkins. He attended Bonds Wilson High School in North Charleston, S.C.

Ken was an avid outdoorsman who appreciated the beauty and serenity of Mother Nature and always enjoyed the challenge of outdoor sportsmanship. He especially enjoyed his bear hunting trip to Canada.

He was the proud owner of a 1979 midnight blue Corvette that he personally rebuilt every chance he got - when he was not in the woods, of course.

Ken was employed as an owner/operator for Wheaton Van Lines from 1980 to 1988. He then was employed with Laidlaw and encountered the various company changes and a transfer to Atlanta in 1992 with the company now known as Waste Management for the last 20 years.

Words alone cannot express how much Kenny’s family appreciates Waste Management for the special bond of team work that he had the privilege of being a part of through out his 20 years with such wonderful, caring people.

Ken was a dedicated son, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, employee, and friend. Through his loyalty, patience, warmth, and compassion, he has touched the hearts of all who knew him. He will be missed immensely.

He is survived by his father, William Kenneth Watkins; mother, Betty May Bush Watkins; sister, B. Kathleen Flesher, brother-in-law, James Daniel Flesher, and their three sons, James Daniel Flesher, Sean William Flesher, and Seldon John Flesher; and friend, Jason Wirth. He married Sherry Wilson in 1982 and leaves behind two daughters and one son, Leslie Myers, Christina Watkins and Michael Watkins, as well as three beautiful granddaughters, Michelle (Demon), Kensley (Gremlin), and Sky (Monster).

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009, from noon to 4 p.m. The funeral service will follow at 4 p.m. in the Rosehaven Chapel. Per his wishes he will be cremated following the service.

Those who wish may send condolences or share a special memory at www.whitleygarner.com

Arrangements by: Whitley-Garner at Rosehaven Funeral Home, Douglasville, GA 30134

770-942-4246