Phil Watkins

Funeral Alternatives of Washington - Tumwater

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The following was written by good friend, Stew Dyke: 

Phil Watkins, 66, a long-time Republican Public Affairs Strategist, passed away August 24, 2015 in Olympia, Washington. A native of California, he was born July 27, 1949 to the late Wilbur and Fern Watkins in Coalinga, California, and attended public schools in Avenal, California, before graduating from Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois in 1971. 

A 14-year resident of Olympia, he also lived in Federal Way, Washington for 17 years, Galesburg, Illinois for 13 years, and Avenal, California for 18 years. He married Nancy Hughes on November 7, 1982 in Seattle. 

Watkins’ early career included working as a reporter for the Galesburg Register-Mail. He later held institutional advancement posts for Carl Sandburg College and Knox College in Illinois and then the University of Puget Sound. 

Phil shared his passion for politics while working for the Republican Caucus of the House of Representatives, as well as the Senate of the Washington State Legislature. Notably, he was an active staffer of such GOP standouts as US Rep. Bob Michel (R-Ill.), and Washington State Congressional leaders, Jennifer Dunn and Randy Tate. Watkins also directed countless political campaigns and was a successful public affairs consultant for 18 years in Washington State. 

Phil enjoyed traveling, gardening, philately, politics and genealogy. He was a past two-term Chair of the Federal Way Planning Commission, served two terms on the Federal Way City Council with one term as its Deputy Mayor. 

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Watkins of Olympia; their son, Michael Watkins; and sister, Pat Cooper of Mesa, California. He was predeceased by his parents; and brother, Dale Watkins. 

Memorial donations may be made to National Public Radio. 

Please leave memories of Phil or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.

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Phil Watkins Obituary | Altogether