David Jerome Watkins

David Jerome Watkins went to his heavenly home on January 22,2026. David was born on June 1, 1962 to Edward David (Bunny) Watkins and Judy Hundley Watkins in Rockingham County, NC. **A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 30th, at 4PM at Fair Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will follow the service.** This change was made due to impending weather.

He began working at a very young age being a runner for Ralph Mabe construction where he learned how to build houses and all the things that go along with building. He worked in the summer and went to school and played ball for Stoneville High School until his graduation in 1980. Upon graduation he became a member of the NC Army National Guard and completed basic training at Fort Sill Oklahoma. It was upon his return from basic that he found his true calling - being a Firefighter. David joined the Shiloh Fire Department and served his community for several years as a volunteer. It was in 1990 where his life took a huge turn with his deployment to Iraq and the Gulf War Conflict. He proudly served his country overseas and those moments define his early adulthood.

 In 1992, he met the Love of his Life while speaking to her classroom about his experiences in the war. Susan and he were married March 6, 1993. They had two children Carter and Abigail which were the apples of his eyes. His pride for his children was evident in the way he always spoke of them to his friends. 

David finally accepted his dream job as a Firefighter with the Summerfield Fire Department. He worked tirelessly and grew a love for the department and that community that never left him. Summerfield was truly a part of his family. He worked his way up to Shift Captain, a position he was extremely proud of. During his time as a member he received several awards including life saving and Fire Fighter of the Year of which he was very proud! Throughout his illness he never stopped being a fireman. There wasn’t a day that went by that he didn’t speak of a memory he had. This career was perfect for him because he was a giving man and never stopped trying to assist others.

More than anything, David was a Christian and loved the Lord. He attended Mercy Crossing in Martinsville, VA prior to his illness. 

He is survived by many family members of which he loved dearly! The family would like to thank the staff at Eden Health and Rehabilitation for the care they provided David during his illness. A special thank you to Karen Gatewood Bullins for being a true friend and always being there to help. To Aunt Althea for always keeping him looking sharp with a haircut and for bringing Judy to the center to see him. To Chuck Davis, Darryl Tilley, and Randy Sexton. You are the definition of true friends! Your weekly visits and outings never went unnoticed and we will forever be grateful to you! 

To the Hospice Team: There are no words that can properly express our gratitude. We were so very blessed to have you managing David’s care for the past 2 years. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in David’s name be given to Summerfield Fire Department’s summer Fire Camp for Kids of which David held a passion for!