John Thomas (Spike) Watkins, 89, died peacefully on Tuesday, October 11th, 2023 at his home in West Boylston.

He leaves his wife of 60 years, Mary Lou (Gingras) Watkins, his son John Michael and his wife Laura of West Yarmouth, Ma, his son William and his wife Aimee of Sterling, Ma, and 7 grandchildren, Michael, William, Jack, Anna, Mary, Tanner, and Tucker. He also leaves a multitude of nephews and “favorite” nieces.

Spike was born on September 2, 1934, in Edwardsville, Pennsylvania to William and Martha (Johns) Watkins. He left Edwardsville to join the service and was a proud United States Navy Veteran of the Korean War, having served 10 years before being honorably discharged.

Spike lived in West Boylston for 52 years and could often be seen on one of his long walks around town. He worked as baker at Wonder Bread in Natick for 27 years, retiring in 1999. He enjoyed tending to his fish tank, bowling, watching sports (especially his beloved Penn State Nittany Lions football team), and watching old westerns on TV. He was a generous and loving man who will be greatly missed. He was pre-deceased by his Best Friend, Red Ryan, with whom he is most likely having a beer with up in heaven.

Family and friends are welcomed to a celebration of Spike’s life with visiting hours Sunday, October 15th from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at Fay Brothers Life Celebration Home, 1 West Boylston Street, West Boylston.  A funeral service will be held in the funeral home Monday, October 16th at 10:00am.  Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Ave., Paxton.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to your local food bank.