Paul Watkins
Alton |
Paul L. Watkins, 82, died at 11:48 a.m., Sunday, August 10, 2014, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.
Born July 6, 1932, in Alton, IL, he was the son of the late Frederick L. and Harriett M. (Hickman) Watkins.
A graduate of Alton Senior High School, he served in the U. S. Army in Korea during the Korean War. A 30-year employee of the U. S. Federal Government, he retired from the Department of Treasury in 1987
Although he grew up attending St. John Baptist Church in Alton, as an adult he professed a hope in Christ and was baptized as a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Venice, IL under the pastorate of Rev. Lonnie C. Calmese. During the 1970’s and 1980’s, he volunteered as a part-time organist specializing in hymns at Alton Community Church of God under Rev. Henry Connors and at St. John Baptist Church under Rev. Thomas P. Wright. Lastly, he was closely connected to Emmanuel MBC.
Surviving is a son, James K. Watkins; six grandchildren, Jessica, Jasmine, Jylan, Shawn, Hosea, and Destinee; a great grandson, Cory; two brothers, David Watkins of Alton, IL and Dennis (Jocelyn) Watkins of Washington, D.C., a sister, Linda Watkins of Alton, and aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother, Frederick Donald Watkins; and two sisters, Phyllis Watkins and Carolyn Watkins Terry.
Visitation will be at 9 a.m. until time of service at 10 a.m., Saturday, August 16, 2014, at Morning Star Baptist Church in Alton, IL. Rev. Stanley T. Henderson, Pastor of Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church officiating. Burial will follow at Upper Alton Cemetery.
Guest Book and condolences are available at www.harrisonfuneralchapel.com
Harrison Funeral Chapel
