May 6, 2025
G. William "Bill" Watkins Receives Tradition of Excellence Award
G. William "Bill" Watkins of Wharton Aldhizer & Weaver has been awarded the General Practice Section’s Tradition of Excellence Award. The award recognizes a Virginia lawyer who “embodies the highest tradition of personal and professional excellence in Virginia, enhances the image and esteem of attorneys in the Commonwealth, and has devoted significant amounts of time, efforts, and/or funds to activities that benefit their community.”
In his nomination, Ronald "Ron" A. Page Jr., of Ronald Page PLC, noted that over Watkins' 51 years of general practice, he has distinguished himself with his competence, intelligence, humility, and good humor. "In short," Page says, "he represents the very best of the legal profession."
Watkins was born and raised in Waynesboro and attended the University of Virginia for his undergraduate degree, graduating in 1970. After attending the T.C. Williams School of Law of the University of Richmond and serving on Law Review, he returned to Waynesboro to establish his legal career in 1973.
Watkins then served as a partner at Allen & Dalton, which merged with another firm to become Allen & Carwile in 1987. In 2023, he joined Wharton Aldhizer & Weaver, bringing his legal expertise and community relationships to his role with the firm. Watkins' practice focuses on commercial real estate transactions and complex estate planning and administration.
During his tenure at Allen & Carwile, Watkins established himself as a committed community leader, serving as legal advisor to the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge since its inception. He also sat on the foundation's board for six years, serving as president for two years. Watkins has served as outside counsel for many long-standing public and private entities in Waynesboro and Augusta County.
The Tradition of Excellence Award will be presented to Watkins during the General Session of the VSB Annual Meeting at 1 pm on Friday, June 13.