John Watkins 1836-1917

WATKINS, EVANS, HALES, CHADWICK, ARMSTRONG, COURTNEY, SHEETS, JORDON

Posted By: Charles E. Hales (email)
Date: 1/30/2005 at 21:33:27

John Watkins was born in Breconshire, Wales March 7, 1836, and was one of a family of twelve children all of whom, except two brothers and two sisters, have preceded him in death. When a young man he was converted and joined the Congregational church. Later in life he united with the M. E. church at Story Chapel, then by letter at Center Chapel and remained a consistent member and attended services as long as he was able.

In May 1860 [August 3,1861] he was united in marriage with Ann Evans, who preceded him in death ten years ago. To this union were born 9 children, all of whom are living except one son, William, who died Aug. 11, 1881.
Those living are Margaret Hales, John E., Mary Chadwick, Jesse, Gwen Armstrong, David E., Kezia Courtney, and Rosabel Sheets. These, with 28 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren , are left to mourn the loss of a kind and loving father.

In May 1881 he, with his family, emigrated to America and settled in Van Buren Co, Iowa, which place has since been his home.

He had been an invalid for twenty months and the last three months a great sufferer but bore it all with great patience until released by death Monday May 7, 1917, aged 81 years and 2 months.

Funeral services were held at Center Chapel Tuesday May 8, conducted by Rev. A.L. Jordon. Interment in Center Chapel cemetery.