SYRACUSE - Freda M. Watkins, 83, of North Manchester, died Aug. 6, 2010, in Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.
She was born one of nine children May 20, 1927, in Perry County, to Mitch, a coal miner, and Polly Campbell. She was married for 53 years to Willard Watkins, who preceded her in death.
Born in the southeastern region of Kentucky, she moved to Cincinnati in 1954 with her family. She worked at Formica and later for Attractive Frocks, Cincinnati. She also worked with her husband at the Shell gas station he owned and operated throughout the '70s.
She attended First Love Baptist Church, Laketon. Her life's passion was her family. She loved to spend time with her children, and many grand- and great-grandchildren. Cooking and caring for her family brought her great joy. When she had time, she'd work in her flower and vegetable gardens. She will be missed in life by many who loved her.
Surviving are four sons: James (and spouse Leslie) Watkins, Cincinnati; Joseph (and spouse Ginger) Watkins, Washington Court House, Ohio; Gregory (and spouse Susan) Watkins, North Manchester; and Willard Jr. (and spouse Jean) Watkins, North Webster; 16 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; a brother, Biege Campbell, Dayton, Ohio; and a sister, Laura Watkins, Peru.
Services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse. Burial will be in Booneville Cemetery, Larwill.
Calling is from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
Condolences may be sent to www.eastlundfuneralhome.com
