Richard Watkins

The 15th of May, 1933 was a seemingly ordinary day, nothing in particular to set it apart… the world had no clue what was coming. In the home of Willie Earl and Elizabeth Fredericka Klumpp Watkins there was a new source of joy, and they named him, Richard. The youngest of seven children to grace the humble abode in Vernon County, Missouri, he would grow up to be a man larger than life in numerous ways.

He married Donna Gayle Marshall on Oct. 17, 1952, while a resident of Kansas City. Four children would grace their home: Marsha, Ricci, Lesha and Dennis. His life’s work was as an elder of Northland Christian Church, a task in which he took great delight. He supported himself and his family by working at Packaging Corporation of America ending his 32 year career there as the shipping foreman.

The only hiccup in life came just prior to being drafted into the armed forces when he lost his right hand to a machine in the factory. Immediately, taking up life as a left-handler, he bowled (really well), managed little league teams, performed tasks that people with two hands found difficult, but he was never handicapped.

He was the grandfather of nine, great-grandfather to 23, and great-great-grandfather of 3. Richard exemplified the principle of, “people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” He filled in as preacher, counselor, and all around handyman with the church, his family, and neighbors alike. Many people owe their reservation in heaven to Richard Watkins. He loved the Lord most of all, followed very closely by his family, then the Royals, Chiefs, and anyone else who also loved the Lord. He could make friends at the drop of a hat, and His toughness was easily seen as he survived heart attacks, strokes, an armload of stints, and various diseases. Life became increasingly difficult in his later years and when this present world could hold him no longer, he left planet earth for a greater worship service on Sunday morning the 5th of Sept. 2021. He has left a legacy to be emulated by all.

Visitation was Tuesday, Sept. 7, at Northland Christian Church 6120 NE 48th Street Kansas City.

Services were Wednesday, Sept. 8, at Northland Christian Church 6120 NE 48th Street Kansas City with burial at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery El Dorado Springs.

Donations are suggested to Northland Christian Church – Breakfast Club.