News

Allen Park, Mich. — One of the greatest multi-purpose backs in Lions’ history, Tommy Watkins, died on Saturday, October 29 after an extended illness. He was 74.
 
Watkins was a 15th round draft pick from Iowa State by the Cleveland Browns in 1959 and came to Detroit in a trade three years later.  From 1962-67, he was one of the NFL’s top return men who also saw considerable duty as a running back.
 
The 6-0, 190-pound former Big Eight Conference standout and All-American led the NFL in punt returns in 1964 (16 for 238 yards, 14.9 average and two touchdowns) and in kickoff returns in 1965 (17 for 584 yards and a 34.4 average).  His 90-yard punt return for a touchdown against the 49ers in 1963 stood as a Lions’ record for 37 years until it was broken by Desmond Howard’s 95-yard TD return against the New Orleans Saints in 2000.  Watkins’ five punt returns for 184 yards against the 49ers in ’63 also set an NFL record.
 
Overall, he combined for 5,296 total yards with the Lions – 2,262 in kickoff returns, 928 punt return yards, 1,582 yards rushing and 524 receiving yards.  He also had 16 touchdowns with the club.
 
After his playing career, Watkins continued to make his home in Detroit.  He coached Detroit Chadsey High School football for 35 seasons until retiring in 2006 and also owned and operated T.W. Graphics in Detroit.
 
Watkins is survived by 5 children: Edna Burton, Grace Watkins, Sonya Ellis-Clark, Mark Watkins and Candace Watkins and 10 grandchildren.
 
Visitation will take place at CW Morris Funeral Home (12700 Hamilton Avenue, Highland Park, Michigan 48203) on Saturday, November 5 from 3:00-6:00 PM and Sunday, November 6 from 12:00-6:00 PM.
 
Funeral services will be held at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church (6327 Burlingame, Detroit, MI 48204) on Monday, November 7 at 11:00 AM. There will be a family and friends gathering at U of D Mercy following the funeral.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Tommy Watkins to:  Boys & Girls Clubs of SE Michigan (4242 Collingwood, Detroit, MI 48204).