Thomas L Watkins

July 16, 1952 - September 14, 2017
Thomas L Watkins

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WATKINS, Thomas L., 65

Thomas Linnane Watkins passed away September 14, 2017, at his home in Urbanna after a tough fight with cancer. Tom was preceded in death by his father, Alfred P. Watkins, his mother, Delia L. Watkins, and the love of his life, his wife, Wrengay R. Watkins.

Tom was born July 16, 1952, in Richmond, Virginia. He was a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a degree in social work, and a graduate of the College of William and Mary with a Juris Doctorate. Tom practiced law for nearly 40 years, working as a prosecutor, in private practice, and for most of his career as an attorney for the Virginia Indigent Defense Council. Tom served as deputy public defender in Virginia Beach before leading the VIDC offices in the City of Franklin then the City of Hampton before retiring in 2013.

Tom is survived by his daughter, Erin W. Moskalski (Travis) of West Point, his elder brother, Alfred P. Watkins (Mickey) of Lexington, and his sister, Linda W. Hamilton of Midlothian, as well as two granddaughters, Juliana Linnane and Claire Paige, to whom he was a most beloved “Baba.”

Tom will be remembered for his formidable intelligence, crackling wit, adventurous spirit, and devotion to his family.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 30th at 11 am at Bucktrout Funeral Home in Williamsburg. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Civil Liberties Union.


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  • September 26, 2017
    Al and Mickey Watkins says:
    We will miss Tom's keen intellect, wry humor and his powerful belief in being an advocate for people who often had no one to be their champion Tom believed everyone should have their rights protected. "The cocoon opened...The butterfly has flown" Lao Tzu

  • September 29, 2017
    Eric Cooke says:
    Tom was a formidable opponent in the courtroom. More importantly, he was a really decent kindhearted guy and scrupulously honest. I considered him a friend and am sorry he is gone from this world. God bless you and your family, Tom.

  • September 29, 2017
    Jane & David Brennan says:
    Tom was a wonderful neighbor, an intelligent, witty, kind and humble person. We're so honored to have known him and we treasure his friendship. Our deepest condolences to his family, who have shown such support and love.

  • September 30, 2017
    BobMorecock says:
    I was forever glad to see him coming; he made me smile. A beautiful Irish heart and a cosmic get for laughter. And there was nobody better at the joyous irreverence of criminal courtroom comedy. All the best to his many friends and family.