BURGAW — It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kenneth Wayne Watkins, beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, on February 2, 2025, at the age of 48.
Wayne was born on November 7, 1976, in Burgaw, North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Vernon and Mary Elizabeth Basden, Pete and Jackie Watkins, and Bobby Nobles; His Uncles Tim Nobles, Moe Kelly, Butch Hicks, John Vermuele, and Tim Kelly.
He is survived by his father, Ken Watkins and wife Trina of Leland, NC; his mother, Dorothy Watkins of Wilmington, NC; his sister, Eve Phillips and husband Brandon of Wilmington, NC; his brothers, Jeffrey Lynch of Portland, TX, and Steven Lynch and wife Elizabeth of Hampton, VA; his cherished grandmother, June Nobles of Wilmington, NC; his aunts, Bobbie Costin and husband Lewis of Castle Hayne, NC, Lynn Watkins and wife Ann of Hollister, CA, Debbie Fowler and husband Robbie of Clayton, NC, Kathleen Sigmon and husband Mike of Hickory, NC, Trish Vermuele of Council Bluffs, IA, Karyn Kelly of Rosenberg, TX, and Chrissy Kelly of Rocky Point, NC; his uncles, Buddy Watkins and wife Theresa of Burgaw, NC, Sean Kelly and wife Rita of Rosenberg, TX, and Michael Hicks of Celina, TN; as well as numerous cousins and friends. Wayne was also a devoted and adored uncle to Fisher Phillips and Hunter Lynch.
Wayne was a chef of extraordinary skill and passion. He began his culinary career in the restaurants of Wilmington, NC, before spending many years honing his craft in the dining establishments of Charleston, SC. He later returned to Wilmington, where he had the honor of working alongside Chef Keith Rhodes at Catch Restaurant. Under Chef Rhodes’ guidance, Wayne not only honed his culinary skill but also formed deep, meaningful connections with his colleagues Angela Rhodes, Kristen Rhodes, Keith Rhodes Jr, Asia Smith, Maurice Ward, Richard Watson, Jennifer Ritch, Amy Guadarrama, Robert Jeffries, Jacob Stone, and Denique Webb. The team at Catch were his second family, and their camaraderie was a true reflection of his dedication and love for the art of cooking.
The family will receive visitors at 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM on Friday, February 7, 2025, at Andrew’s Mortuary, 1617 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401. A reception will take place afterward at The Cape Community Center, 1111 The Cape Boulevard, Wilmington, NC 28412.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Paws Place Dog Rescue.
Online condolences may be shared with the family here.
