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Arlie Dees Watkins

Arlie Dees Watkins

April 12, 1928 – January 20, 2018
Arlie Dees Watkins, a resident of Camden, Alabama, died on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at J. Paul Jones Hospital. The service of celebration of Arlie’s life was held on Tuesday, January 23 in the sanctuary of Camden Baptist Church.

Arlie was born in Neshoba County, Mississippi on April 12, 1928 to Oliver and Hilda Dees Watkins. He graduated from Forest Dale School in Neshoba County, and then from Mississippi State University with a degree in business. Arlie joined the United States Navy and served in the Korean War. Upon his discharge, he worked with his father’s business until 1955, when he acquired the Western Auto Associate Store in Camden, Alabama.

He married Rachel Johnson in 1955, and together, they were in business for 46 years. Arlie was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Frances Ruth Cook.

He is survived by Rachel, his wife of 62 years, his children Jennifer Watkins Blackbourn and her husband Richard, of Starkville, Mississippi, and Arlie David Watkins and his wife Trish, of Alpharetta, Georgia. He is survived by five grandchildren: Marshall Blackbourn and his wife Sarah of San Diego, California; Forrest Blackbourn, his fiancée Andrea and her daughter Zaelyn of Dalton, Georgia; and Laura, John, and Amy Watkins of Alpharetta, Georgia.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions can be made to the Camden Baptist Church or charity of one’s choice.

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