Robert Lee Watkins, Jr.

Robert Lee Watkins, Jr. ,78, passed away on February 12, 2020 at UNC Hospital Chapel Hill. His loving family and friends were with him. He was born and raised in Wake county /Raleigh. He was the son of the late Bertha and Russell Medlin and Robert Lee and Mary Elizabeth Watkins Sr. Robert(Bob) was a graduate of Broughton High School, and later went on to Wake Technical Institute and received a degree in Civil Engineering. Bob was also a very proud veteran. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Bob started Rockside Grocery out on Old Stage Road in 1975, and in 1981, the business transitioned to Rockside Tire Sales and Service, located on 401S. He loved the Garner area community and was always ready to help anyone. Thats where the shops moto came from, “A customer once, a friend forever.”. He loved getting up early during the Christmas season, dressing up in his Santa suit and waving to people as they drove into work. He also came up with the Rockside Tire Christmas Tree. Bob loved fishing and golf, and enjoyed doing both at Kennels Beach. Racing at Wake County Speedway was another love of his, and he loved the WCS family. His other great love was his church and church family. He served his church in many capacities over the years. He will be greatly missed by many friends and family. His memorial service will be held Saturday, February 22nd at 2pm, at Lord of Life Lutheran Church(2100 Buffalo Rd. Garner NC). Visitation with family will follow service. In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to Lord of Life Lutheran Church. Bob is survived by his wife Carolyn, his daughter Sarah, his half sister Penny Matthews, his nephew Dillon Matthews and family, and his half brother Butch Watkins.