It is with profound sadness to announce the passing of Dr. Dennis Michael Watkins. Affectionately known as Mike or Doc, he left us peacefully in the early morning hours on December 3, 2024 due to complications from a hypoglycemic episode that occurred in late July.

Mike was born on October 21, 1950 in Palm Beach, Florida at St. Mary's Hospital. At an early age, he along with the Watkins family moved to College Park where Michael attended public schools and graduated from Edgewater High School in 1968.

He often helped out at the family business, Watkins Paint and Wallpaper until leaving for college in Gainesville. He attended the University of Florida from 1968 until 1978, graduating with a B.S. degree in chemistry and a Doctorate of Medicine degree in Dentistry. He was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity and served as president during the 1972-1973 school year. During his time as a dental student he met his future husband, Michael Murphy. After graduating, the pair returned to Orlando and were married on October 23, 2011 in N.Y.C.

Dr. Watkins first practiced dentistry in Pine Hills and then moved to the Mills Avenue location. His practice, Watkins Dental, was not limited to the wealthy and the well insured. He was kind and generous, treating many patients who couldn't afford dental care and others who had poor health conditions. After approximately 44 years, he retired, but remained committed to continuing his education.

Aside from dentistry, Doc enjoyed traveling, cooking, entertaining, singing, the theater, the gym, and his cat Sky.

Preceded in death by parents, Pat and R.E. and brother Rick, Doc is survived by husband, Michael Murphy, brothers Wayne and Greg, sister in laws Beth Watkins, Teresa Watkins, Liessa Murphy and Sue Murphy, brother in laws James Murphy, John Murphy, Terry Murphy and Edward Murphy. Also mourning are an endless list of adoring patients, coworkers, friends and family.

Should you like to make a charitable donation in Doc's honor please consider an animal rescue of your choice.

A celebration will occur in loving memory of Michael Watkins Sunday, January 19th at 12:00PM in the DeVos Family Room located in the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center 445 S Magnolia Avenue Orlando, FL 32801. Valet parking is available at the main entrance, as is drop off. Additional parking options are available including City Commons Parking Garage 460 Boone Avenue, Seaside Plaza Parking Garage 228 S. Magnolia Avenue, Seaside Plaza Jackson Street Parking Garage 77 E Jackson Street and a Parking Lot at 100 E. Anderson Street, please plan ahead.