Gerald Neal Watkins

Gerald Neal “Poppy” Watkins

Gerald Neal “Poppy” Watkins, 86, of Orange, Texas, passed from this world to his Heavenly home on May 27, 2025. Born in Port Arthur, Texas, on February 13, 1939, Gerald was a life-long resident of Bridge City and Orange.

Gerald had a passion for woodworking, bowling, camping, fishing and yard work. He took great delight in taking care of his beloved pup, Archie and kitty, Trixie. There wasn’t an animal he didn’t love. His simple joys were often found spending time outdoors and his family.

He is reunited in peace with his devoted wife, Linda Ricks Watkins, his daughter Teri Chesson, as well as his parents, Joe and Lucy Watkins.

He leaves behind his daughters, Stormy Drummond and husband, Roy; Tami Kennedy and husband, Chris; grandaughters Lauren Ratcliff and husband Clifford; Brooke Breaux and husband Dustin; grandsons Aiden Drummond; Chris Kennedy and wife Melinda; Joshua Wester and wife Sarah; Cole Chesson; great granddaughters Lucy, Vada, Olivia, Silver, Connor and Karsyn; great grandsons Brantlee, Levi, Jude, Finn, Slayde, Christopher, Jonathan, James and Lawson.

Gerald's presence will be missed, but his spirit will live on in the memories of those who knew and loved him.