Dale Watkins

Dale Watkins' long battle with COPD ended Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022, surrounded by family and friends at his home at Chateau Girardeau.

Dale was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Oct. 12, 1942, to the late Louis and Rachel Adams Watkins. He developed a lifelong love of the outdoors and horses on his grandfather's Arkansas farm.

He married Sue Bittle in 1962 and in 1973 moved his family to Cape Girardeau. His friendly and competitive nature led him to a career in sales. Retiring from Hardin Sysco after years of working in the food service industry, he went on to retire a second time from McBride Mack in truck sales.

He was never without a horse. His early years were spent rodeoing, roping and trail riding Western style. He later developed a passion for polo. Along with his son, Steven, he trained his favorite quarter horse, Buck, to become a polo pony. He joined Little Egypt Polo Club. He, Sue and Buck spent many happy years traveling and playing polo throughout the area. When COPD left Dale unable to ride, he took his competitive nature to the card table, spending many hours at bridge and poker.

A man of faith, Dale was a member of First Baptist Church.

He will be remembered as a loving and generous husband, father and Pa-Daddy in his signature Wranglers, cowboy shirt, boots and hat. He will be deeply missed.

Dale is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sue Watkins; daughter, Laurie (Joe) Schneider; son, Steven Watkins; grandsons, Sam (Meagan) Schneider and Jack Watkins; and great-grandsons, Sawyer and Canaan Schneider.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 31, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 31, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Jeff Long officiating.

Burial will be at Jonesboro Memorial Park in Jonesboro.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Mississippi Valley Therapeutic Horsemanship (MVTH) or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.