William David Watkins

William David Watkins, 81, of Huntington, WV passed peacefully on December 2, 2024 at the Village at Riverview in Barboursville after a long, courageous battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

David was born in Huntington, WV to William Worth and Gertrude Watkins who loved him dearly. He graduated from Barboursville High School and went on to study at Marshall University. He enlisted in the United States Navy and served on the USS Intrepid where he was honored to take part in the recovery of the Gemini 3 capsule carrying Lieutenant Commander John W. Young and Major Virgil "Gus" Grissom when it splashed down in the Atlantic. He was proud to serve his country and continued by serving in the Naval Reserves.

After active duty he returned to complete his studies at Marshall University graduating with a Masters Degree in Biological Science. While pursuing his degree, he began working at Ashland Oil in the refinery. He continued working there after his graduation, retiring after 36 years as a Research Chemist in the Research and Development Department.

David was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying camping, hunting, and fishing since childhood. As each November approached he readied himself for the opening of hunting season with fervor.  He was thankful for his close friends, Jim and Jamie Riggs, who shared his passion for the outdoors and often shared these treasured experiences.

He was a true Appalachian in his enjoyment of gardening and canning...the best memory of all was the abundance of freezer corn shared amongst all of the extended family! He raised bees and jarred honey, a memory we all shared. He was proud of his Appalachian roots and enjoyed sharing in his heritage with his family.

David was a sports enthusiast, especially for Marshall University Football and Basketball. He was a member of the Big Green Club for many years up until his health declined. He most definitely bled green! He also enjoyed baseball, having played under the legendary Jack Cook while at Marshall. This love for baseball carried over into his coaching of little league teams in the Huntington area with his dear friend, David Glick.

While working at St. Mary's Hospital, David met his wife, Sandy, who was in nurses' training. They were married on November 27, 1964 and had just celebrated 60 years of marriage prior to his passing. As he wished for a son, he was surrounded by a family of women: 4 daughters and one granddaughter.

He was a lifelong Baptist, having attended church locally, most recently at New Baptist Church. He enjoyed reading the Bible, singing in the choir, and enjoying fellowship with his fellow members. His faith never waivered offering him great comfort.

David was preceded in death by his parents Worth and Gertrude Watkins, a sister Debbie Thompson, and a precious daughter, Amy Watkins. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Watkins and his daughters Lynn Haynes (Christopher), Becky Bare (former son in law Brian), and Julie Watkins, his special youngest. He is also survived by his only grandchild, Rachael Bare, whom he loved and with whom he shared many outdoor adventures and a love of science and nature.

Funeral Services will take place at Beard Mortuary on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 1pm. Visitation will take place two hours prior to the service. Burial and Military Honors at Spring Hill Cemetery to follow.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to those who helped during this difficult time...Jennifer Fields, NP who helped us navigate his battle with Alzheimer's. Dr. Artina Lane who cared not only for him but his entire family by providing support. The staff at the Village at Riverview, especially Sara Hall, who ensured that we were cared for during the moments of David's passing.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Tri-State Lifecare Adult Day Program, a part of Hospice of Huntington.