Donald Watkins, 72, of Grand Island, NY, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2024 at Buffalo General Hospital in Buffalo, NY. Born April 15, 1951 in Andalusia, AL, he was the son of the late Willie and late Louise (Johnson) Watkins.

Donald moved to the Niagara Falls area at the age of 2 years old and graduated from Niagara Falls High School in 1970 and enlisted in the United States Marines until his honorary discharge.

He learned the true meaning of earning his own money at a young age.  As a young teen, he started getting donations for his church that he grew up in.  He also showed his sisters and cousins on how to start doing fundraisers and making a profit selling Katydids and Golden Crumbles.  He would even help them to count the money and then go to local restaurants to warm up.

Donald was able to buy his own car as a senior in High School, which was a RoadRunner. He was an avid lover of cars, whether he was joy riding, racing, or just pulling up to his mom's house to wash whatever car he decided to that day because he has so many.  He also loved going to car shows.

Donald began working at Harrison Radiator and later the production line at General Motors in Tonawanda from 1977 until his retirement in 2022. He was an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills and the Golden State Warriors. He always treated people well, helped where he could, and took the best care of his family. His loving and caring personality will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Donald is survived by his son, Donald (Gregina) Watkins, Jr., and step children, LaTosha Bryant and Andre Bryant; his grandchildren, Donald Watkins III and Devin- Dionte Watkins; his siblings, Sandra (late Wayne) Vincent, Kathy Sistrunk, Melvin (Priscilla) Walker, and John Walker; and his special friend Shiela Chapman; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was predeceased by his siblings, Annie Douglas, Shirley Gillian, and Willie Watkins, Jr.

Funeral services will be held privately for Donald's family.  Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.