David Reid Watkins, 70, of Groveport, OH passed away peacefully in his home with his loving wife, Donna, by his side on June 21, 2026.

David was born on October 30, 1955, in Columbus, OH. He graduated from Groveport Madison High School in 1974. David began farming as a teenager and continued farming upon graduation. David started his career with the Franklin County Engineer's Office highway maintenance department in 1985, where he worked for over 30 years before retiring as Assistant Highway Maintenance Superintendent in 2016. In 2017, David became the Madison Township Public Works Superintendent where he worked for the next 8 years until retiring in 2025. David also worked as a consultant with DW Clonch, INC.

David married the love of his life, Donna Sharrow, on June 17, 1978. They resided in Groveport, OH where they raised their two sons, Luke and Logan. David had a passion for cooking, woodworking, and horticulture. David took great pride in creating a beautiful home for his family to enjoy. Handcrafted furniture and cabinetry that he created in his custom workshop could be found throughout his home, as well as the homes of his family and friends. Plants and flowers that he grew in his greenhouse were on display all around their home. Throughout the years David built an outdoor living space that was complete with a wood-fired oven and outdoor kitchen that he used to host numerous gatherings of family and friends.

David is survived by his loving wife Donna, son Luke (Jennifer) Watkins, granddaughter Lyla Watkins, brother Doug Watkins, sister Carole Orlandi, and many cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws.

David was preceded in death by his son Logan Watkins, his parents Earl and Gloria Watkins, and his parents-in-law Lawrence and Jeanette Sharrow.

The family is honoring David's request for a private celebration of life.