James William Watkins (“Bill”) departed from this life on May 21, 2019, at his home in Springfield, Ohio. He was the oldest of five children born to Willie J. and Mable Watkins. He accepted Christ when he was eight years old and was baptized at Guiding Star Baptist Church in Louisville, Ky. During his membership, he joined the Young Adult Choir, where he remained for several years.

In 1963, Bill joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served his country for several years, advancing to the rank of sergeant.
He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Navy Unit Commendation Medal. Unfortunately, remnants of the Vietnam War remained with him throughout his life. The greater part of his work history was spent at Navistar (formerly International Harvester), where he retired after 33 years, a span that included a relocation to Springfield, Ohio.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Sharla Watkins; his children from a former marriage: Kendrick Watkins (Rachel), Troy Watkins, and Joy Simic (Stephen). Also from this marriage was a son who preceded Bill
in death: Jerry Watkins (Marian). Other survivors include a stepdaughter, Andrea Kelcy (Robert); parents, Willie and Mable Watkins; a brother, Larry Watkins (Cathie); sisters: Delores Rhodes (Glenn), Rita Harris (Glenn) and Linda Watkins; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, aunts, longtime friend William Squires, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be 10 to 11 am on Thursday, May 30, 2019 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals and Receptions, East Louisville Chapel, 235 Juneau Drive, Louisville, KY (in Middletown), with a celebration of James' life to follow at 11 am there.

Burial will be 11 am Monday, June 3, 2019 in Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central in Radcliff, Kentucky.

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