Bruce "Da Bam" Watkins

Bruce C. Watkins, Sr. was born on October 1, 1952, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Robert Watkins, Sr. and Victoria Watkins. A man of unwavering faith, tremendous strength, boundless love, and unforgettable charisma, Bruce was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, coach, mentor, church servant, athlete, and friend. Throughout his life, he touched countless lives through his generosity, leadership, humor, and commitment to family. His story is one of perseverance, service, sacrifice, faith, and love.

Bruce spent his early childhood in Atlanta's historic Carver Homes community, where he attended his first years of elementary school. In 1963, his father proudly purchased a brand-new home in the Thomasville subdivision of southeast Atlanta, creating what would become the Watkins family's forever home. It was there that Bruce grew from adolescence into adulthood, surrounded by a close-knit family rooted in faith, discipline, and love.

Robert Watkins, Sr. and Victoria Watkins raised their children in a Christian household and were faithful members of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. The Watkins home was spiritually motivated, respectful, loving, and family-centered. Family dinners were a daily tradition, and large Sunday morning breakfasts created cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

As the eldest child, Bruce proudly carried the titles of "Big Bro" and "Big Brother." He took seriously the responsibility of helping care for and protect his younger siblings, Vickie Nelson (Eugene Nelson), Carla Bynam, Robert Watkins, Jr., and Robin Walker. To his siblings, he was a protector, role model, and source of strength. His sister Vickie often described him as the kindest, smartest, strongest, and bravest brother anyone could ask for.

Bruce was outgoing, funny, mischievous, protective, athletic, and studious. He was often the life of the party and possessed a remarkable gift for making others laugh. One favorite family story involved his childhood dislike of collard greens. In a household where children were expected to eat whatever was prepared, Bruce found his own solution by covering his collard greens with ketchup. What began as a childhood compromise became a running family joke, especially after he eventually learned to enjoy them without ketchup.

Bruce attended John Wesley Dobbs Elementary School before continuing his education at Fulton High School and later community college. While attending Fulton High School, he established himself as an exceptional athlete and made history as the school's first African American running back. His talent, determination, and athletic achievements earned recognition in the local newspaper and helped establish a legacy that would be remembered for years to come.

Athletics became one of Bruce's lifelong passions. He excelled in football, basketball, softball, and numerous neighborhood sports activities. His competitive spirit, natural talent, and dedication made him a standout athlete both on and off the field. Bruce's strong work ethic began early. His father operated a custodial and janitorial business in addition to working full-time at Stein Printing Company. Bruce's first job was working alongside his father in the family janitorial business, where he learned the values of responsibility, discipline, and hard work.

As a young man, Bruce later joined his father at Stein Printing Company. Through dedication and determination, he steadily worked his way through the ranks and eventually became a manager. One of the family's favorite stories from that time involved Bruce's first paycheck. Excited about earning his own money, he spent nearly the entire check treating his sisters to one of their favorite fast-food restaurants and buying them jewelry. When his father learned what he had done, he lovingly advised him, "Son, don't ever blow your money like that." Though intended as a lesson in financial responsibility, the story revealed Bruce's generous heart and selfless nature. Even at a young age, his greatest joy came from sharing with others.

When called to serve his country, Bruce answered with honor. He proudly served in the United States Army, where he also earned a place on the Army football roster. Whether wearing a military uniform or a football jersey, Bruce demonstrated discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and leadership.

After completing his military service, Bruce continued building a life defined by service, dedication, and excellence. He began a distinguished career with the United States Postal Service, where he faithfully served for many years before retiring. Throughout his tenure with the Postal Service, Bruce earned a reputation as one of the organization's top employees. He was widely respected by supervisors, coworkers, and customers alike for his professionalism, dependability, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Bruce approached every responsibility with pride and integrity, consistently going above and beyond expectations. His work ethic and positive attitude left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside him.

Sports remained a major part of Bruce's life. He played on neighborhood teams, job-sponsored softball teams, and recreational leagues throughout the years. It was on the softball field where he earned the nickname "Da Bam." Friends, teammates, and family members watched in amazement as he effortlessly launched towering home runs over the fence. The nickname became synonymous with his athletic ability, larger-than-life personality, and competitive spirit.

Bruce also enjoyed bowling and was a proud member of a traveling bowling league. Whether on the football field, softball diamond, or bowling lanes, he treasured competition, camaraderie, and the friendships built through sports.

While Bruce enjoyed many accomplishments throughout his life, nothing brought him greater pride than his family.

In 1987, Bruce married his forever boo, Rita Millsap-Watkins. Their love story began while playing on a post office softball team. What started as friendship blossomed into a beautiful partnership built on love, laughter, commitment, and devotion. Together they shared nearly four decades of marriage and built a home filled with warmth, resilience, and unforgettable memories.

Bruce was a proud and devoted father to Bruce C. Watkins, Jr. (Lana Watkins), Deandre A. Watkins, and his baby girl, Maya M. Watkins. He loved teaching his children sports, coaching their teams, encouraging their dreams, and preparing them for life. He was their biggest supporter, strongest advocate, and proudest fan. Known affectionately as "Pops" by his children and "Papa" by his grandchildren, Bruce found immeasurable joy in his family. He leaves behind five beloved grandchildren: Sean Watkins, Justin Watkins, Brayla Watkins, Deandre Watkins, Jr., and Israel Oshinowo. Each brought tremendous pride, happiness, and purpose to his life.

Bruce's faith remained a cornerstone of his life. At Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, he faithfully served as a deacon, member of the male choir, pantry committee volunteer, and servant in the church van ministry. He believed in helping others, serving his church family, and living out his faith through action. Bruce was tough but loving, protective yet gentle, disciplined yet fun-loving. He loved family gatherings, good food, music, laughter, and dancing. Known as the family's dancing machine, Bruce could often be found entertaining loved ones with his infectious smile, quick wit, and unforgettable moves. He had a way of making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved.

Bruce was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Robert Watkins, Sr. and Victoria Watkins; his cherished niece, Marinda Kittilson; and his dear aunt, Elsie Daugherty. Though his physical presence will be deeply missed, Bruce's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the family he cherished, the faith he carried, and the values he instilled. His life was a testament to service, perseverance, generosity, family, faith, and love.
A life well lived. A legacy well earned. A man deeply loved. And a memory that will live on forever.