William I. “Bill” Watkins Jr., 95, Willow Springs, MO went to be with his Lord and Savior Thursday, July 11, 2019, at Cabool, MO. He was born May 5, 1925, in Aberdeen, South Dakota to William I. and Angie (Elder) Watkins. He entered in the U.S. Navy during World War II serving in the Pacific, receiving his GED after his service. He was united in marriage to Nona Ratterree on June 21,1958 in Willow Springs, MO and to this union one son was born, David Watkins on May 2, 1959.
Bill lived in many towns and states as a young boy due to his dad’s employment. He farmed in the Clear Springs area in Texas County, known as Clear Springs Farm. Jesus Christ was of the utmost importance to Bill. He was a member of First General Baptist Church in Willow Springs where he taught Sunday School. The last several years he has attended CrossWay Fellowship Church in Willow Springs where he attended every time his health permitted and there he met his second family.
He is survived by his son, David Watkins, Springfield, MO; several nieces and nephews; special friends, Joann Wiese and family; Sheryl Ford and family; and many friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Angie Watkins and his wife of 56 years, Nona Watkins.
David would like to thank the nurses and staff at Kabul Nursing Home for their care and love.
Graveside Services with full military honors will be held Monday, July 15, 2019, 2:00 p.m. at Willow Springs City Cemetery, with visitation from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. at Yarber Mortuary chapel in Willow Springs. Interment will be in the Willow Springs City Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family or CrossWay Fellowship Church in Willow Springs.
Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.