Joseph Reese Watkins

Mr. Joseph R. Watkins age 70 a resident of Auburndale passed away into the Lord's hands Sat. July 12, 2014 at Winter Haven Hospital due to heart failure. Mr. Watkins was born April 3, 1944 in Athens, OH. To Gail & Naomi Lucille (Mansfield) Watkins. He was an Auburndale resident since 1978 from OH. and he was the owner/operator of Watkins & Watkins Pest Control. He was a past member of Life & Praise Church, attended Haven Church of God, member of the DAV, American Legion & past member of the VFW in OH. He was a United States Navy Veteran and served in the Bay of Pigs. He was also a member of the Boy Scouts where he earned his Eagle Scout medal. Joseph enjoyed the beach, traveling and loved his family dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents and 2 sisters Bev & Judy. Joseph is survived by; Wife of 52 ½ Years: Elaine Watkins of Auburndale 2 Sons: Rick Watkins of Auburndale Joe (Loida) Watkins of Winter Haven Daughter: Kathy (Robert) Weed of Winter Haven Brother: Gail R. (Suk) Watkins of San Antonio, TX 6 Grandchildren: Brittany, Levi, Alexa, Natalie, Austin & Emily 2 Gt. Grandchildren: Brayden & Karlei Sister-in-Law: Patty (Larry) Brogan of Parkersburg, WV Brother-in-Law: Bill (Cathy) Cooley of Athens, OH. Many nieces & nephews Funeral services will be 11 AM Wed. July 16, 2014 at the Kersey Funeral Home. Interment will follow with Military Honors at Auburndale Memorial Park. Visitation will be held before from 10-11 AM at the funeral home.