William Watkins

JUSTIN, Texas -- William Craig Watkins, 76, of Justin went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017. He passed away at home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Sept. 8, 1941, in Cape Girardeau to William T. and Annabel Seabaugh Watkins. Craig married the love of his life, Mary Emilie Mulkey.

Craig lived his life always ready for an adventure, with a twinkle in his eye, eager to lend a hand and make a friend. He had a strong sense of civic duty and readily took on leadership roles.

In his retirement years, he was happiest behind the handlebars of his motorcycle with Mary as his co-pilot and the open road stretching out ahead. Their travels took them to all of the lower 48 states and most of the Canadian provinces.

Craig is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Watkins of Justin; daughter, Patricia Watkins Jones, and husband Ron of Denton, Texas; son, William Craig Watkins Jr., and wife Amy of La Grange Park, Illinois; brother, Bruce Watkins and wife Jan of Jackson; and three grandchildren, Ethan Jones, Michael Jones and Ellie Watkins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; as well as infant twin grandsons, Jacob and Luke Jones.

A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Oct. 21 at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church of Denton.

In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged, in Craig's name, to the American Cancer Society or the American Stroke Association.

DeBerry Funeral Directors of Denton is in charge of arrangements.