James C. Watkins, Jr., known as "Buddy," was born to the Florine and James C. Watkins sr. on March 26, 1948. James graduated from baltimore City publics schools. He worked at Mercy Hospital for a number of years before his accident in 1974. He enjoyed traveling with his long time sweetheart and soul mate of over thirty years, Alfreda Gathers. James leaves to mourn Alfreda Gathers he was a godfther to her children Tenyo and Antoinette; and also godfather to their children Ashley, Ebony, Alexis, Everett and numerous great-grandchildren who loved him very much. He also leaves; his two daughters, Michelle Atkins and Dion Hughes; two sons-in-laws, Tony Atkins and George Hughes; grandchild, Justin Hughes; three sisters, Ruth White, Cecelia Sutton and Deborah Parker; two brothers-in-law, John Sutton and Gary Parker; four brothers, Ricardo Vaughn, Calvin Vaughn, Antonio Wiggins and Donear Wiggins; three sisters-in-law, Benita, Hazel and Marsha; and a host of nephews and nieces, other relatives and friends