Gregory Watkins

Gregory Joseph Watkins, 58, of Lafayette, IN, went to his eternal home on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at Franciscan Health surrounded by his loved ones.

 Greg was born on  August 7, 1968 in Lafayette, IN to the late Joseph and Kathleen Watkins (Cook). He graduated from Lafayette Jefferson High School in 1987.

On November 21, 1992 he married the love of his life, Melissa (Misi)  A. Cochran at Congress Street United Methodist Church in Lafayette, IN. Greg worked as a Union Steelworker at Arconic for 29 years. Throughout his years at Arconic, he worked many jobs in multiple departments. In his younger years he worked as a mechanic at Crabtree Automotives and Spurlock's Gas Station.

Greg enjoyed fishing and boating, working on cars, helping his sons on projects, cruising around town with his wife, spoiling and playing with his grandkids, and spending time with his family and friends.

Surviving Gregory are his wife, Melissa A. Watkins of Lafayette; his children Benjamin C. Watkins (MaeLee) of Goodland, Michael G. Watkins (Natia) of Stockwell, and Nicholas F.G. Watkins of Lafayette. His grandchildren, Keith, Owen, Weston, and Chloe. His sisters ,Brenda Smith (ex. Jerry) of Lafayette and Dianna Maxwell (Russell) of Delphi. He also adored his nieces, nephews, and all of their children.

Gregory was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, sister, and brother.

A Celebration of Life will be held November 21, 2026 at the Colombian Park Rush Pavilion on Scott Street in Lafayette, IN.  An open House will be held from 12pm to 3pm.