Melvin Douglas Watkins' Obituary
Melvin Douglas Watkins, Sr. was born on June 20, 1942 in East St. Louis to
the union of Evelyn Josephine Ballard and George Watkins who both preceded
him in death. He was the second of six children born to Evelyn. His older brother
Rudolph Watkins also preceded him in death.
Melvin was educated in East St. Louis School District 189 where he attended
Dunbar Elementary, Hughes Quinn Junior High and was a graduate of Lincoln
Senior High School Class of 1961.
Melvin enlisted in the U.S. Army on March 5, 1962 and retired from the Army
on March 31, 1982. He was employed with the United States Postal Service
as a Supervisor for over 22 years.
Melvin was united in Holy Matrimony to his sweetheart Dorothy Watkins on
November 17, 1965 to this union three children were born Melinda, Major
and Melvin Jr. Dorothy preceded him in death on November 5, 2016. Their
Love Story existed for over fifty one years!
Melvin was a member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, where he served
as a Deacon and Trustee and he also was a member of Prince Of Peace
Missionary Church.
Melvin departed this life on Tuesday March 12, 2024 and he was surrounded
by his children and family.
He leaves to cherish his memory: daughter ~ Melinda Kirkman (Johnnie), sons
~ Major Watkins (Stephanie) and Melvin Watkins, Jr., six grandchildren ~
Shanese Eberhart (Ronald), Major Watkins, Jr., Tamyra Flowers, Malcolm
Watkins, Brandon Douglas and Melvin Watkins III, three great grandchildren ~
Drew Eberhart, Xaia Eberhart and Kl'azic, sisters ~ Manilla Spiller (James),
Linda Ballard and Michelle Ballard, brothers ~ Charles Jeffries and Carl
Watkins (Tami), and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Melvin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Melvin?
Share a story where Melvin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Melvin you’ll never forget.
How did Melvin make you smile?
