UNION: Services for Mr. Andrew M. "Sonny" Watkins will be held 11 am, Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Milling Funeral Home Chapel of Union.

Bishop Chuck Overby will officiate.

Visitation will be held 9:30 am – 11 am at Milling Funeral Home.

A private family graveside service will be held in the Reid Chapel Church of God Cemetery.

Mr. Watkins, age 79, of Philadelphia died Monday, July 14, 2025 at Neshoba County Nursing Home of Philadelphia.

Mr. Andrew M.  "Sonny" Watkins was born in the rural town of Hays, Neshoba, MS and he grew up farming the land with his family.

He joined the Army National Guard in 1965 and remained a part of it until 1971, earning the Sharpshooter Badge in 1970. The rest of his life, he held on to the Army Camo Colors in various parts of his life.

After the guard he began his career as a truck driver, delivering for Hardin's Bakery, Smith's Bakery, Tom's Peanuts and other companies. His life long career became a semi-truck driver for Rapid Trucklines. He traveled all over the USA driving a truck.

Mr. Watkins was always making jokes and trying to cause people to laugh.

He loved Southern Gospel Music.  Jimmy Swaggart, Bill Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band were his favorites late in life.

He also loved his family dearly and he will surely be missed.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Elma Jayroe for her care of him while he was staying at Neshoba General Nursing Home. She became like a family member to him and vice-versa.

Survivors:

3 Sons: Mark Watkins (Tammy) of Collinsville, Kevin Watkins (Bethany) of Meridian and Chris Watkins (Ashley) of Meridian

2 Sisters: Pauline Pyle of Terry and Shirley Compton (Butch) of Sebastopol

1 Brother: Nolan Watkins (Shirley) of Philadelphia

9 Grandchildren

5 Great Grandchildren

3 Step Grandchildren

Mr. Watkins is preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow Watkins and Eudora Barrett Watkins and one sister, Ellaree Watkins Scruggs.

Pallbearers: Steven Watkins, Blake Watkins, Brian Watkins, David McDonald, Jimmy Anderson, Derek McCombs and Brody Watkins

Honorary Pallbearers: Ronnie Anderson

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Community Animal Rescue and Adoption P.O. Box 231 Clinton, MS 39060.