David R. Watkins

David Ray Watkins, 97, of Gladstone, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2014. David had been a resident of the Kansas City area for more than 14 years. Services will be held Saturday, March 22 at 10:00 AM at the St Luke’s Presbyterian Church, with a visitation at 9:00 AM. Burial will be in Carthage, MO.

David was born Feb. 16, 1917 to Davis and Ellen Watkins in Duenweg, Missouri and graduated from Joplin High School in 1935.

He married Mary Katherine Gallaher in 1939. He served in the US Army Air Corps as a bomber crew flight officer during World War II.

The family moved to Durango, CO in 1949 to start the 7-UP Bottling Company, which grew into the Jackson-David Bottling Company. Mr. Watkins sold his ownership in the bottling company in 1982.

Preceded in death by his wife and baby daughter, Susan, David is survived by his son, Dr. David (Susan) Watkins of Weatherby Lake and daughter Kathy Bailey of Gladstone, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Mr. Watkins was an avid golfer and tennis player, a Mason, and member of the Elks Club.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Concerned Care of North Kansas City. Arr: McGilley Antioch Chapel.