Harold was born January 7, 1960, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Harold Clayton Watkins Sr. and Rosalee Mae Watkins. Raised in Grandview, Missouri, Harold graduated from Ruskin High School in 1978. He went on to attend college while working at General Motors, applying himself with a steady, thoughtful determination that marked the way he approached each season of life.
Harold found deep meaning in art. He loved playing guitar, listening to music, and painting. Art remained his passion—something he wished he could have shared with the world. He especially loved visiting the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, where he drew inspiration and quiet joy from what he encountered there.
A man of remarkable intelligence, Harold was devoted to learning and spent time studying philosophy and science. He also carried himself with strength and resilience through chronic pain, and he faced pancreatic cancer with courage and clear-eyed resolve, understanding that his time was limited.
Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Rosalee Watkins. He is survived by two sisters, Anena Metoyer and Cheryl Hammond; his brother, Glenn Watkins; his aunts Cynthia Slaughter Weatherspoon and Betty Wesley; his four nieces and nephews, David Metoyer, Lauren Metoyer, Taylor Hammond, and Alina Hammond-Ralls; and many cousins.
He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. The family would like to thank the staff of Rockhill Manor for the care they showed our loved one, and St. Luke's Hospice, especially Lisa and Scott, for the compassion they showed him in his final hours.
A Funeral Service will be held at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131, on April 21, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. A Committal Service will follow at Mount Moriah Cemetery South, from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm.
Contributions in Harold's memory may be made to, Rockhill Academy or St. Luke's Hospice House.
