Weldon Bruce Watkins, Sr. 83, St. Joseph, Missouri; passed away Saturday, July 8, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Weldon was born on November 27, 1939 in Gower, Missouri, to the late Samuel and Leah (Divelbless) Wakins.  He was a graduate of Stewartsville High School and served his country in the United States Navy.

Weldon served as Captain of the St. Joseph Fire Department for over twenty one years.  He also worked for Standard Parking for fifteen years before retiring.

Weldon was a member of the Cornerstone Church.  He could often be found tinkering with cars, building models with popsicle sticks and listening to the Royals on the radio.

Weldon married Linda Gray on June 22, 1970 and recently celebrated fifty-three years of marriage.  She survives him of the home.

Additional survivors include his children, Weldon Watkins, Jr. (Teresa), Minnesota; Brook Watkins (Amanda), of the home; Dena Smith (Frank), Jonesburg, MO; nephew, Tobey Simpson (Debbie); grandchildren, Camdyn, Maveryk and Adalyne Watkins; Kyler Watkins, Jarrett McCrary, Sarah, Jacob, Kristy, Franky and Scott; numerous great and great-great grandchildren; two sisters, Myvalon Haney, Xenia Bannister and uncle, Ben Watkins.

In addition to his parents, Weldon was preceded in death by his father-and mother-in-law, Rev. Lon and Leafhie Gray and his son, Daniel Watkins.

Mr. Watkins has been cremated under the direction of Heaton-Bowman-Smith & Sidenfaden Chapel.  Celebration of Life 6:00 PM Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at Cornerstone Church, 16100 US Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485 with Military Honors provided by American Legion Post #287 Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Cornerstone Church.