Craig Watkins

Craig Lee Watkins, a beloved son, brother, father and veteran, passed away on Monday, October 13th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, courage, and dedication.

Born on December 3rd, 1947, to Mr & Mrs Lee (Elsie) Watkins, Craig was blessed with a loving family. His mother later married James Henry "Wolf" Jones, who raised Craig as his own, teaching him values that would shape his life.

Craig graduated from Waukegan Township High School.

Craig worked diligently at Abbott Laboratory for over 32 years, earning respect from colleagues and friends alike.

Craig answered his country's call, serving bravely in the Vietnam War as a proud member of the US Army. Upon his return, he met and married the love of his life Saundra Harris and they started a family. Their son, James Warren Watkins, brought immense joy, though his passing during the pandemic left a void. Saundra's passing in 2024 was another tremendous loss for Craig.

To his family, he was the rock, the man of the family – his mother always hinted she loved him the most.

Craig is survived by his sisters, Jackie Watkins, Lisa Jones, Joy Jones and Rosie Jones; brother Bruce (Lishae) Johnson, first cousin Danetta (Anthony) Davis; other cousins including Thomas (Brenda) Olawumi, Angelo Olawumi, Beverly Stalls, Silverita Bell, Denise (DeWhite) Anderson, Ozzie Jones, James Pruitt Jr., Arron Pruitt, Wendy Pruitt-Morris, and Victor Pruitt Sr., numerous nieces including Bridget Jones, Charrie Pierce, Dr. Michelle (Kenneth) Collins-Austin, Sonya Guillory, Elizabeth Smith, nephews including David (Natalie) Jones, LeAndra Berryhill, Gregory (Dana) Smith, Robert Smith, Cory Smith, friends Michael Duley, Jessie Evans, James Jones, Lula Johnson and the rest of the family and friends who will deeply miss him.

Special acknowledgement from his sister Jackie:

Craig, as siblings, we didn't connect until late in life. Once we did connect, it was for life. I will love and miss you always.

Love Jackie