Robert Glenn Watkins, 78, of Madison died January 7, 2009 at Athens Regional Medical Center. He was born in Jackson County on December 22, 1930 to Olin Henry Watkins and Montene Hendrix Watkins. He served in the United States Air Force in Korea and in Texas, where he met Sara Jo Layne whom he married on December 29, 1956. They made their home in Madison, where Mr. Watkins was a respected homebuilder.

He was a member of Madison Baptist Church. Mr. Watkins enjoyed playing golf and after retirement he worked at The Creek Golf Course. He also loved to watch his grandchildren playing baseball and soccer.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sara Jo Layne Watkins and their children, Glenda W. Jackson and Milton of Madison, Randy Watkins and Teresa of Rutledge, Patrick Watkins and Debbie of Madison and Pam W. Gilbert and Freddy of Stephens; 12 grandchildren,  Audrey Watkins, Jenny Layne Watkins, Randal and Anna Watkins, Olin Watkins, Robert Jackson, Layne Jackson, Ashley Watkins, Stacey Watkins, Evan Watkins, Andrew Watkins, Molly Gilbert and Will Gilbert; two great-grandsons, Mason Jackson and Trace Watkins.

A graveside service was held at 11:30 a.m. Friday at Madison Memorial Park with Dr. Jim Ross officiating. His grandsons served as pallbearers.

A.E. Carter Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Published in the January 15 edition.