Raymond L. "Ray" Watkins

Raymond L. "Ray" Watkins, 80 went home to be with the Lord May 17, 2012. He was a devoted family man, father, grandfather, brother and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Born in Mogadore, he lived most of his life in the Akron area. Ray served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War, where he earned the Silver Star and other military awards. He graduated from Mogadore High School, and was employed with Plumbers & Pipe Fitters Local 219. Ray was a member of the Mogadore American Legion and Knights of Columbus.

Preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years of marriage, Mary Louise; daughter, Mary Kathleen Watkins; son, Joseph Raymond Watkins; parents; one sister; and one brother. He is survived by children, Jackie Douglas, Debbie (Jim) Castor, Johanna (Chris) Cobbold, Judy (Mark) Shenot, Rob, David (Cindy) and Dan Watkins; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brothers, Harold (Mary) and Don Watkins; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, 10 a.m., at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 2603 Benton St., Akron 44312, with Father Michael Williamson celebrating. Burial will take place at Hillside Memorial Park, where military rites will be conducted.  Friends may call at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Rd., Akron 44312, from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday. Memorials may be made to the American Lung Association, 1950 Arlingate Lane, Columbus, OH 43228.