Thomas Neal Watkins was born in Danville, Virginia on April 13th, 1941 to the late Hera and Virginia Lipscomb Watkins. He served his country faithfully in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and subsequently retired from the New York City Metropolitan Transportation Authority after many years as a conductor.
While serving in the military, Neal was stationed in Korea. He was honorably discharged, received a National Defense Service Medal as a Rifle Expert and a Good Conduct Medal for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity. After graduating from John M. Langston High School in June 1960, Neal moved to New York City and met his soulmate, life partner and wife of 57 years, Karen Watkins.
Left to cherish his memory and continue his legacy are his beloved wife Karen, daughters Muriel and Beverly, and grandson Alexander. He had a special, deeply affectionate relationship with his grandson, Alexander, which words cannot fully describe. While his youngest brother Alfred recently passed, Neal will be remembered with love by his sister, Adele, and older brother, Hampton, along with nieces, nephews, relatives, and many dear friends.
A service to celebrate his life will be held Friday, May 7, 2021 at 10am at Graham Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1112 Kempsville Rd., Chespeake with Pastor Tracy Gregory officiating. Please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence to the family.