William H. Watkins, age 85, of New Castle, passed away the morning of April 26, 2023, at Butler Memorial Hospital.

Born Oct. 18, 1937, in New Castle, he was the son of the late Stanley Perry and Alma Elizabeth (Crum) Watkins.

On Aug. 25, 1962, he married his beloved wife Joyce (Charlier) Watkins. She preceded him in death on Nov. 29, 2018.

William was a graduate of Shenango High School. He worked as a Superintendent, employed by Bruce and Merrilees his entire career, until his retirement. He was a member of IBEW local union #712 of Midland, PA. William enjoyed gardening, canning, tinkering, wood working, and traveling. He was a member of the Army Reserves, #342 Blue Lodge, and 32nd Degree Masons of the Scottish Rite Cathedral. William was a charter member of Independent Methodist Church.

Survivors include two daughters, Lynn (The Rev. Joseph) Rearick of Washington, PA, Amy DeAugustine of New Castle, PA; one son, Bill Watkins of New Castle, PA; five grandchildren, Adam, Rachael, Nicole, Elizabeth and Reis; and four greatgrandchildren, Noah, Bonnie, Claira, and Levi.

In addition to his parents and wife, William was preceded in death by one grandson, William Chase Watkins, one brother, Stanley Perry Watkins, and one sister, Nancy Hudach.

Visitation will be held on Mon. May 1st from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle.

A funeral service will take place on Tues. May 2nd at 11:00 AM, at Independent Methodist Church, 1921 New Butler Road, New Castle, PA 16101, with The Rev. Frederick Gilbert officiating.

Burial will be alongside his wife at Parkside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to Independent Methodist Church, P.O. Box 7805, New Castle, PA 16107.

Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.