Robert "Carey" Watkins

Robert “Carey” Watkins Sr., 88, of Charlotte, passed away Sunday, April 28, 2019 surrounded by his loving family.

Carey was born December 19, 1930 in Fairview, North Carolina to the late George and Letha Crowell Watkins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Mary C. Watkins, his son, Robert C. Watkins, Jr, and his three brothers, Crowell Watkins, Pascal Watkins and Herman Watkins.

Carey owned and operated Battery and Ignition Dist., an automotive parts business for over 65 years. Throughout the years, he owned many stores in the Charlotte and surrounding areas. He grew up attending Hopewell Baptist Church, located in Monroe, NC and returned as a member of the church in the last few years. Carey had a heart for stray animals, taking in several dogs over the years.

Carey is survived by two of his children, Lynn (Shawn) Watkins and Cindi (Frankie) Varnadoe, along with six grandchildren, Heidi Watkins, Nathan Watkins, Emily (Matt) McKay, Erin (Ryan) Tavenner, Matthew Varnadoe, and Ashley (Eric) Meehan. He is also survived by two sisters, Laura Winslow of Raleigh, NC and Sue Watkins of New York, along with several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give a special thank you to his neighbor, Ms. Barbara Lucas.

A drop-in gathering will be held to celebrate his life on Sunday, May 5th from 2:00pm-4:00pm at the home.

Memorials may be made to Hopewell Baptist Church, Monroe, NC or to the Humane Society of Charlotte.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Midland is serving the Watkins family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com