Gerald C. Watkins, 88, of Ledyard died on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at his home. He is survived by his beloved wife, Joan G. Watkins.
Jerry was born June 22, 1937, on Martha's Vineyard, MA, the son of Carlene (Rogers) Watkins and Charles Watkins. He grew up in Ledyard, CT, graduating from Norwich Free Academy. After high school Jerry enlisted in the Army National Guard, serving from 1961 to 1967 when he was honorably discharged. Jerry was hired by New London Submarine Base Fire Department in 1966, retiring in 1992. Over the years Jerry had worked at DOW Chemical, Ledyard WPCA and Electric Boat. He fully retired after working at the Mystic Seaport for 17 years.
In addition to his wife, Jerry is survived by his daughter, Roslyn Watkins of New Gloucester, ME, his son Gerald "Jerry" Watkins Jr. and wife, Paula (Raffield) Watkins of Preston, CT. Grandchildren Dale Watkins and wife Tra To of New Rochelle, NY, Kathryn Watkins of East Hampton, CT, Matthew Watkins of Montville, CT and Ceara Gonzales of Ledyard, CT. His siblings Charlene (Watkins) Maurer of Preston, CT and Charles Watkins and wife, Lynn, of Ledyard, CT.
Jerry was predeceased by his parents and sister Nancy (Watkins) Cartell, his beloved grandson, Gerald "Jerry" Watkins III, with whom he shared a special bond, as well as his closest friend and brother-in-law Earle Spencer Jr.
At an early age Jerry could be found volunteering his time with the Gales Ferry Fire Company, even having responsibility at his Long Cove childhood home for activating the house siren to alert others when there was an emergency. Once married and living in Ledyard, Jerry also spent many years with the Ledyard Fire Company. His time and dedication earned him a life membership in both companies with a combined more than 50 years of service which included his 26 years with the SUBASE fire department. His true calling earned him awards and accolades which included life-saving rescues. His specialty was the forestry division. He would leave no brush fire without full confirmation that all embers were darkened down.
Jerry had a love for the outdoors and could often be found fishing, hunting and camping with his family. He spent his years with the love of his life, Joan, attending Old Mystic Baptist Church followed by Poquonnock Bridge Baptist Church. His love would shine through in the simple things like making coffee and holding his wife's hand any chance he could. He would tend daily to his grandson, Jerry III's, burial site and spend his spare time tinkering and his quiet hours reading.
Memorial donation in Jerry's name can be made to Gales Ferry Fire Company, 1772 Route 12, Gales Ferry CT 06335 or Ledyard Fire Company, 11 Fairway Drive, Ledyard, CT 06339.
A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, October 31, 2025, at 11:00am at Gales Ferry Cemetery, 14 Hurlbutt Road, Gales Ferry, CT with a reception to follow at Gales Ferry Fire House.
A special thank-you to the Poquonnock Bridge Baptist Church, Dinoto Funeral Home and Bayview Health Care for their support.