Obituary of James-L. Watkins

James L. Watkins, 87, died March 12, 2008, at Fountainview Nursing Home in Mishawaka. He was born in Chattanooga, Tenn., and had lived in Fort Pierce since 1984, recently moving to Mishawaka. He was an Army veteran of World War II, and received the Bronze Star for heroic and meritorious achievement. He was honorably discharged in 1945 as a first sergeant. Before retirement, he was electrician. He joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 153 in 1946 and was a member of the first apprenticeship class. In 1953 he was appointed press secretary by Sam Asire and served on the executive board for 15 years. In 1980 he was honored with the Distinguished Service Award from Local 153, where he had been a member for more than 60 years. He became a member of the Free Masons in 1987 and in 1988 he was appointed Worshipful Master by Fort Pierce Lodge 87. He was also a member of the Shriners Scottish Rite and lifetime member of VFW 360. Survivors include his wife, Harriet Garman of Mishawaka; sons, Richard Watkins of Edwardsburg, Mich., and Paul Watkins of Williamsburg, Ind.; daughter, Linda Nellans of South Bend, Ind.; sister Mary Ruth Coffman of Chattanooga; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 1325 S. Congress Ave., Boca Raton, FL 33426. SERVICES: Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. March 15 at Bubb Funeral Chapel in Mishawaka, with a Christian service at 4 p.m.