Lelan Thomas Watkins

WATKINS, Lelan T., age 87 of Kettering, passed away Monday, June 13, 2011 at Kettering Medical Center. He was born in Morgan Co, Kentucky to the late Jesse “Kie” and Grace (Burgess) Watkins. He was also preceded in death by his loving wife of 42 years, Dorothy Mae Watkins; daughter, Lori Ann; brothers, John Morgan Watkins and Jesse “Kermit” Watkins; and sisters, Nila Mae Watkins and Malcolm Kizzy Watkins. He is survived by his daughters, Deloris (Lester) Roberts of Kettering and Patricia (Alan) Russell of Kettering; son Jack (Linda) Watkins of Centerville; grandchildren, Melissa Brewer, Michael (Lara) Roberts, Kie (Hien) Watkins, Marlina (Keith) Watkins and Emily Ann Russell; great grandchildren, Michael J. (Valorie) Roberts, Chloe Brewer, Chase Puffer, Lilli, Liem Jack and Li Watkins; brother, Vernon Roger Watkins; and sisters, Gusteen Katie (Byrd) Watkins and Lillian Orene (Davis) Watkins. In his early days, while living in Kentucky, Lelan worked as a coal miner and farmer. After moving to Ohio, he worked for Chrysler Air Temp for 30 years. He was also a conscientious employee for 37 years at Merchants Security. Lelan was an avid game hunter, loved gardening vegetables and gave away more than he ate. He loved horses, owning nine Tennessee Walkers in his lifetime and also liked to pick the banjo. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 17, 2011 at the TOBIAS FUNERAL HOME-BEAVERCREEK CHAPEL, 3970 Dayton-Xenia Rd. with Rev. Glen Sizemore officiating. His family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service Friday at the funeral home. Interment in Beavertown Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed to Lelan’s family at www.tobiasfuneralhome.com.