Danny Watkins

Danny Dean Watkins

June 8, 1953 – January 12, 2021

The measure of a man’s life is often measured simply by the day of birth and the day he leaves this life for the next. But for my husband, my son’s father, and for the many lives he has impacted during his brief sojourn on earth, we can now reflect on how the gift of life can be played out on the screen of life. And for this blessing, we are forever and eternally grateful.

Danny Dean Watkins was born on June 8, 1953, in Bailey Burl, Texas, a small rural community outside of Lubbock, Texas. The second of three children, and the only son of Dan and Bobbie Watkins, he loved life, adventure, and especially his family. Life became more difficult as his mother found herself single and responsible for raising her three children. She worked hard and supported her family in any way possible. When the family later moved to Houston, TX, Danny was introduced to a group of young men who became not only life-long friends, but who were also the catalyst for him becoming a Christian and later enrolling in Southern Bible College, not to become a pastor, but simply to build his life upon a foundation of truth, honesty, and integrity.

His career with the Houston Fire Department began with the completion of the Houston Fire Academy at Houston Community College on October 19, 1978. Danny pursued excellence throughout his career at the department in his roles of Firefighter, E & O Operator, Jr. Captain, Sr. Captain, and District Chief. After his career with Houston, he was given the opportunity to share his passion, experience, and love for firefighting with a new family of firefighters, city administrators, and community participants as the Fire Chief for the City of San Benito. Chief Watkins, as he is now called by the brotherhood of men and women with whom he served, was a servant leader. For those who knew him well, he was a man of faithfulness, commitment, and honor. Danny has led the way once again, being the first in our immediate family to see his faith become sight. Danny leaves behind his wife of 40 years, Debra Denise Watkins; two incredible sons: Derek Dean Watkins, Dustin Steele Watkins, an awesome grandson, Parker Dean Watkins, and a host of friends, family members, and colleagues he has known throughout his life.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Thursday, January 21, 2021 at Memorial Oaks Chapel.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 22, 2021 at First Baptist Church, Brenham, TX. Burial will follow at Independence Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main Street, Brenham, TX 77833.