Leroy H. Watkins, 86, of Cape Girardeau died Thursday, April 1, 2004, at St. Francis Medical Center.

He was born Oct. 4, 1917, in Granite City, Ill., son of David Henry and Maude Fierce Watkins. He and Thelma M. Kurre were married Nov. 24, 1938, in Granite City. She died Dec. 16, 2003.

While living in Granite City, Mr. Watkins worked for Missouri Pacific Railroad. After moving to Cape Girardeau he worked at Cape Wilbert Vault Co., and later became owner and operator of the business.

He was a member of Cape Bible Chapel and worked with AWANA youth group; member of Optimist Club; volunteer at St. Francis Medical Center and head of Life Line.

Mr. Watkins served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Survivors include a son, John D. (Janet) Watkins of Wentzville, Mo.; two daughters, Dianna (Ronald) Morton and Mary Kay (Robert) Lohmeier, both of Cape Girardeau; a brother, David H. (Emily) Watkins Jr. of Granite City; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a sister.

There is no visitation.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Cape Bible Chapel, with Hal Greene officiating. Burial will be at 1 p.m. Monday at Cape County Memorial Park.

Lorberg Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made to Southeast Hospice.