Obituary: David Watkins

David Watkins, 81, passed away peacefully on Oct. 4, 2026, following a courageous year-long battle with cancer.

David was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, to Myra and Harry Watkins. He attended the University of Cape Town, where he remained after graduation to begin his career in the supermarket industry.

In 1968, David met the love of his life, Lorraine. They married in 1970 and began building a life and family together.

In 1978, after a successful career as a top executive at Pick n Pay, David and Lorraine made the difficult decision to emigrate to the United States, seeking new opportunities and a better future for their children. David embraced his new home with the same determination and entrepreneurial spirit that had defined his career. Ten years later, he embarked on an entirely new chapter, becoming an expert Persian rug auctioneer — a career that brought him both professional success and great enjoyment.

Above all, David’s greatest love was his family. He cherished his wife, his children, and especially his grandsons, Dylan and Maverick. He was also an avid sports enthusiast, a keen Bridge player, and a gifted challah baker.

David will be remembered for his remarkable storytelling, quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and ability to make people laugh. He had a gift for turning everyday moments into stories that his family will continue to tell for years to come.

David is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Lorraine; his son, Michael (Robin); his daughter, Karyn (Mark); and his cherished grandsons, Dylan and Maverick.

His family will miss his stories, his laughter, his warmth, and, most of all, the remarkable presence he brought to their lives.

Graveside service were held at Crest Lawn Memorial Park in Atlanta, Ga., at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Congregation Beth Tefillah or to Friends of the Israel Defense Force. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.