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Judge Watkins’s Portrait Unveiling Ceremony
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Judges Take The Bench
On July 28, 2023, The Honorable W. Keith Watkins, Senior United States District Judge, was honored with the unveiling of his official portrait at a ceremony held at the United States Courthouse in Montgomery. The significant event was attended by a notable assembly of family, federal and state judges, governmental officials, friends, current and former law clerks, and attorneys, all gathered to honor Judge Watkins's exceptional service to the federal judiciary.
Esteemed figures, including Chief United States Circuit Judge William H. Pryor, Jr., United States District Judge R. Austin Huffaker, Jr., and Senior United States District Judges Myron H. Thompson and W. Harold Albritton III, delivered speeches. Special tributes also were offered by Judge Watkins's wife of forty-seven years, Teresa; his daughter and son-in-law, Emily and Patrick Holcombe; a long-time family friend, Douglas I. Friedman, Esq.; Clerk of Court Trey Granger; and Judge Watkins’s career law clerk, Laura Wright. Letters from Chief United States District Judge Emily C. Marks and former President George W. Bush, who appointed Judge Watkins to the federal bench, were read. Additionally, Quentin Riggins, co-Chair of The Frank M. Johnson Jr. Institute, delivered remarks, and a memorable moment occurred when Judge Watkins's grandchildren led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Close friends, Dr. Todd Pearlstein and Dr. Edwin Morriss, participated by delivering the invocation and benediction.
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Judge Watkins
The ceremony underscored the central role of faith and family in Judge Watkins's life, alongside his steadfast commitment to the United States Constitution and the rule of law. As resonated by speakers, Judge Watkins’s tenure on the federal bench has been marked by strong leadership, integrity, commonsense, humor, and humility. Chief Judge Marks praised Judge Watkins as a "constant source of wisdom, advice, and much-needed lightness" amidst the gravity of their duties. Judge Watkins's dedication to mentoring his law clerks, whom he and his wife regard as family, also was highlighted. The special relationship Judge and his wife share with the law clerks includes an annual retreat held in the mountains of western North Carolina. Additionally, Mr. Riggins defined Judge Watkins’s tenure on the bench by reference to the Creed of Judge Watkins’s alma matter, Auburn University: “I believe in obedience to law because it protects the rights of all.”
Judge Watkins's significant contributions to the founding of The Frank M. Johnson Institute in 2019, were acknowledged, emphasizing his invaluable leadership and guidance. As noted by Judge Thompson, the Institute "would not be what it is today without your influence" and scholarly contributions.
The pinnacle moment came at the unveiling of the portrait by Judge Watkins’s wife, son, and daughter. The portrait, painted by renowned portrait artist, Jie Ruan, depicts Judge Watkins in the courtroom, holding the family Bible, with the United States Flag and an emblem depicting, “to secure the blessings of liberty,” in the background. As Judge Watkins explained in his remarks, behind each bench in the courtrooms is emblazoned a different phrase from the preamble of the United States Constitution, with this phrase holding great importance to him. Judge Watkins closed his remarks, reminding the audience, particularly his law clerks and grandchildren, to “live your life in a way that opportunities seek you” and not to “leave this earth without anyone ever knowing you were here.” Judge Watkins was very humbled and grateful for this special ceremony and recognition.
After the ceremony, a reception was held in the atrium, with piano music performed by Dr. T. Bob Davis, uncle of Judge Watkins.
Judge Watkins has served as a United States District Judge since December 2005 and was Chief Judge from 2011 to 2019. His enduring legacy of dedication to the federal judiciary continues to inspire those around him.