Mr. Perise Louis "Louie" Watkins, Jr.

UTICA – On Monday, July 31, 2023, Mr. Perise Louis “Louie” Watkins, Jr., age 64, unexpectedly went home to be with the Lord in the comfort and dignity of his own home. Louie was born in Utica on May 28, 1959 to the late Louis and Anna Mae (Simmons) Watkins, and attended local area schools. In his youth, he excelled as an athlete, and did especially well in boxing, earning a great name for himself in the ring. At one time, Louis was employed in the food industry as a Chef with Red Lobster, Friendly’s and several other local restaurants. His culinary skills gained him much fame – people especially loved his mac and cheese. At one time, he wed Courtney Brown and shared a marriage with her up until her passing in 1978. He later shared a relationship of many years with Lubertha Tanny, prior to her passing in 2008. He also had loving relationship with Kelli O’Brien who passed away in 2019. He also was a devoted fisherman, and any moment he could he escaped to the water. Although he was a strict father, Louis always treated his children with the utmost love. He wanted to live a long life and be a part of his grandchildren’s’ lives. He had a special sense of humor and also had a certain charm with the ladies! He was a man’s man. He also held a special place in his heart for his Lord and God. Louis is survived by his children and their loves, Janet and Eldon Clarke, Cassandra and Derian Garland, Brianna Mae and Devin, Anthony Brown, Terry and Tamara Harris, Brian Watson, Perise “Woogie” Watkins, the cherished memory of his son Louis D. “L.L.” Watkins, who passed in 2018, and Trevon Watkins; his 24 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He also aided in raising and nurturing Anthony Jackson, Dorothea, and Chris O’Brien. He will also be missed by his siblings who called him “Baby Lou”, Frieda Rodgers, Felicia Shaw, Percilla Watkins, Christine Watkins, Bianca Watkins, Daniel “Danny” Watkins, William Watkins, Vincent Watkins, and Darrell Watkins. He remembered fondly his siblings who preceded him, Lora “Cathy” Cooper, Sheila Watkins, and Donald R. “Donny” Watkins. Louis shared in many friendships throughout his life that he held close to his heart. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 10, 2023 from 4:00-5:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Louis’ Home Going Service and Celebration of Life at 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will take place in New Forest Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Perise Louis "Louie" Watkins, Jr.

May 28, 1959 - July 31, 2023