Obituary for Gary "Bull' Berryman Watkins
Gary B. "Bull" Watkins
Gary B. Watkins, lovingly known to many as "Bull," passed away at the age of 74 on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Snyder, Oklahoma.
Bull's story began on September 5, 1951, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the beloved son of Otis and Wanda Watkins. At the tender age of four, his father was transferred to Altus, and he moved with his family to Altus, Oklahoma, in 1955 a place he would proudly call home for the rest of his life. It was there he built a legacy rooted in faith, family, and service. He graduated from Southside School in 1970.
Bull was truly larger than life. You felt his presence the moment he walked into a room. He wasn't just a cowboy he was a force of nature. A champion cowboy with grit in his bones and strength in his heart, he carried himself with undeniable charm and style. Bull lived life on his own terms doing what he wanted, when he wanted and inspiring others to do the same.
He often spoke of the "four F's" that guided his life: faith, family, friends, and forces. These pillars shaped the man he was and the legacy he leaves behind. A lifelong Christian, Bull lived his faith daily through kindness, generosity, and service to others.
Bull met the love of his life, Judith "Jude" Watkins, when she and a friend were cruising through Altus. His big personality and handsome smile quickly won her over. The two were united in marriage on December 9, 1970, at the Altus Air Force Base Chapel, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love, hard work, and shared purpose.
Known throughout the Altus area as a rancher, businessman, and community leader, Bull owned and operated several successful businesses, including Texaco, Watkins Auto Parts, Paddle Boats at the Lake, and OTT Telecommunications. Alongside Jude, he worked tirelessly not only to grow their businesses but to strengthen the community they loved.
Bull had a deep and abiding passion for horses, a love he generously shared with others especially children. His greatest joy was teaching people how to ride. If you spent any time around Bull, chances were you found yourself in the saddle. He believed every child deserved that experience, and countless families are grateful for the confidence and joy he gave their children. His generosity knew no bounds he would truly give the shirt off his back to help someone in need.
From a young age, Bull was deeply connected to tradition and community. Beginning at just 10 years old, he helped lead the Mayday Picnic crossing, held the first Saturday in May. For decades, he rode horseback across the Red River into Vernon, Texas, gathering with others at Doan's Store. Alongside fellow riders, he made the journey from Elmer to Vernon, keeping alive a cherished tradition that meant so much to generations.`1
Bull was also deeply devoted to Altus and its connection to Altus Air Force Base. He played a vital role in fostering that relationship, most notably through his leadership in establishing the annual Altus Air Force Base Cattle Drive. This special event brought together military leaders and the local community, with Bull providing horses, guidance, and a true Western experience. In 2011, Bull was honored as "Friends of Altus."
His dedication to public service was evident through his 12 years serving on the Altus City Council, including two years as Vice Mayor. Through his leadership, vision, and tireless commitment, he helped shape the community for generations to come.
Bull knew what it meant to work hard and to get back up when life knocked you down. He was tough as nails and incredibly resilient. But behind that strength was a giant heart one full of love for his family.
Above all, his greatest pride and joy was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Judith "Jude" Watkins; his cherished daughter, Tiffany Clark and her husband Ashley; his son, Jay and his wife Katie; and his beloved grandchildren, Asher, Gracie, Axton, Waylon, Jax, Kota, Nylah, Trace and Rally. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Cole and husband Rex nieces, and nephew, Kendra Cole, Koby Cole and wife Melissa, and Shelly Federico.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Christa Dawn; his mother, Wanda Lou Watkins; his father, Otis Watkins; and his sister, Robin Watkins.
A tribute from his children:
"Our dad wasn't just a cowboy or even just a man he was everything. He showed us what it means to be tough, to stand back up, and to go after what you want in life. He loved us and we loved him just as much.
Daddy, you may be gone from our sight, but you'll never be gone from who we are. You rode through life like a champion, and that's exactly how we'll remember you strong and unforgettable. We are so proud of you, Dad. We love you."
Gary "Bull" Watkins leaves behind a legacy of strength, generosity, leadership, and love. His impact lives on in the lives he touched, the traditions he carried forward, and the countless memories made on horseback. He will be deeply missed, but forever remembered.
The Watkins family will receive friends from 5:00 - 7:00 PM Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the Lowell-Tims Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Friday, April 3, 2026, at the Lowell-Tims Funeral Home Chapel and burial will follow at the Altus City Cemetery.
Services have been entrusted to Lowell - Tims Funeral Home and Crematory, Altus, Oklahoma.
To send flowers in memory of Gary "Bull' Berryman Watkins, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
Thursday
2
Apr
5:00 PM
- 7:00 PM
Lowell-Tims Funeral Home
1100 East Tamarack Road
Altus, OK 73521
Funeral
Friday
3
Apr
2:00 PM
Lowell-Tims Chapel
1100 East Tamarack Road
Altus, OK 73521
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