Edward Lee Watkins

Edward Lee Watkins, 77 passed away Tuesday, January 21, 2025 in Charlottesville, VA. He was surrounded by his loving wife, Catherine Gale (Burnett) of Ashland, VA and his children.

Ed was born and raised in Rustburg, VA and resided in Nelson County, VA with his beloved wife Catherine of 25 years.

He is preceded in passing by father, Otis Lee Watkins Jr., mother, C. Evelyn Watkins (Furlong) and his father-in-law, Norman T. Burnett, Sr. of Ashland, VA.

He was survived by his daughters Rhonda Smith (Harry), and Melissa Watkins (Rick), grandchildren, Allyson Smith, Andrew Smith (Brittany), and Carrie Franklin. He also will be missed by four wonderful great-grandchildren, Kylee, Gage Lee, Hadlee (Allyson), and Raelyn (Andrew). Ed was also survived by his step-daughter, Amy Brown (Timothy), and her two children, Candace (Jacob) and Courtney. Ed is also survived by his sister Linda Shirey (Herbert), nieces, nephews, our wonderful Florida family, and many other extended family members.  On his wife's side, his mother-in-law, Carolyn Burnett of Ashland, VA, his sister-in-law, Bonnie Smith (Lex) of Partlow, and his brother-in-law, Norman T. Burnett, Jr. of Ashland, VA. The family would also like to include his colleagues and friends as special people in his life that will miss him dearly.

The legacy Ed has left is immense and impactful. He was always full of passion and determination to do an excellent job, had knowledge of many subjects, and commitment to his career. His colleagues respected him and many considered him a mentor. Many more considered him a friend, with his dry sense of humor and skill of telling a great story. 

He started his career in law enforcement in Campbell County, VA and made his stamp there. He then moved on to the Central Virginia Training School and then proceeded to Amherst County, VA where he made a huge impact on the whole department, many cases, and task forces. He then moved to Nelson County, where he settled down with Cathy and started working with Nelson County Sheriff's Department. He was a graduate of the Virginia Forensic Science Academy.  He both graduated and taught at the Commonwealth Criminal Justice Academy.  He made such a huge impact on this community and this department. He was seen not just as a colleague, but as a mentor. After retirement from Nelson County, Ed couldn’t sit still, so he worked briefly at Wintergreen as security, then as a bailiff in Nelson County Circuit Court. His passion and knowledge has been shared far wide through the state of Virginia, and far beyond. Ed was a member of the Mackey Masonic Lodge #69 in Rustburg, VA where he dedicated and served 51 years. 

Although he was passionate about his work, he had a love for many other things. Fishing, riding his Harley Davidson, and walking the trails with beloved Ladybug, admiring nature. He was a member of the Bass Masters Club for many years, serving as Vice President at one time, and competing in many tournaments. He was also a member of the Harley Owners Group (HOGS) for many years. 

Although he was a strong and powerful man, he could also show a soft side to his family. To Cathy, he was “Baby”, to his daughters, he was Daddy, to his grandchildren, he was PawPaw, and to his great grandchildren he was Poppie.

Overall Ed was about God first, Family, and his Country. He was passionate and protective of all. He was outspoken and honest, but loving, and everyone loved, respected, and honored him.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston, VA with Pastor John Campbell officiating.

A private family interment will follow at Cumbie Memorial Cemetery in Rustburg.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at the funeral home.

Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).