Randall S. “Sid” Watkins, 63, of Southbury and a Sandy Hook native, died peacefully February 2 at Danbury Health Care Center, with loving family at his side. He fought a courageous battle with cancer. He was born October 17, 1950, in Sandy Hook, where he was raised.

He was married to Beverly Blanchard-Watkins, and they remained together throughout his life. His brother and sister-in-law Steven W. and Antonia L. Watkins of Hamden, N.Y.; brother Robert Watkins of Asheville, N.C.; and sister Ruth Jumper and her husband Ben of Asheville also survive Mr Watkins. His father Ellwood Watkins, mother Jean Hazard-Watkins, and brother Keith Watkins predeceased him.

Mr Watkins served as a medic in the United States Air Force. He was a painter by trade and took great pride in his work.

He had a love of golf and fishing, and loved nature, canoeing, and his dogs.

He was very close to family and loved spending time with is uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews. They were all important to him, as were his many special friends. He is remembered as a true friend to many.

The family wishes to thank Dr Jennifer Zikria and the Praxair Cancer Center for all the wonderful care given Mr Watkins. A special thank you is given to his cousin, Terri Watkins-Braziel, for all her love, kindness, and many hours of help through this difficult time, and to neighbors Jeff and Lisa Hine and family, as well as to Boyd and Alice Saxton, for all their friendship and support. Thank you, as well, to Reverend Mel and Pastor Jane of the Newtown United Methodist Church, where Mr Watkins was a member.

A celebration of his life will take place Friday, February 7, at Newtown United Methodist Church, at 11 am. A gathering will take place downstairs following the service.

Memorial donations may be made to the Newtown United Methodist Church, 92 Church Hill Road, Sandy Hook CT 06482; the Praxair Cancer Center, 24 Hospital Avenue, Danbury CT 06810; or the Brian J. Silverlieb Animal Care and Control Center, Old Farm Road, Newtown CT 06470.