James Norman Watkins, 89 of New London, passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at his home.

Family and friends are invited to James' Life Celebration service 11:00 AM Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Fenton-Kendrick Funeral Home in Centralia with burial to follow in the Mt. Horeb Cemetery in Sturgeon.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the funeral home on Saturday.

James was born on September 21, 1936, in Sturgeon, MO the son of James Walter and Ruby Margaret (Robinson).

On November 17, 1955, James married Ruth Robinson and she survives.

Along with his wife, Ruth, James is survived by his children, Steve Watkins and wife Renee of Peoria, IL, Salinda Voepel of Hannibal, Lisa Salter and husband Mark of New London; grandchildren, Andrea Coffey (Justin), Ashley Cooper (Codie), Zachary Watkins, Jaime Watkins, Jessica Bramblett (Curtis), Chris Voepel, Shelbey Witt (Corey), Macey Salter; great-grandchildren, Taylor, Noah, Addison, London, Olivia, Blakley, Cora, Mary Jane, James, Corbin and Maverick; brothers, David Michael Watkins (Jeanine), Gary Joe Watkins (Marlene).

James served his country in the United States Navy, taking part in two of the tests for the Hydrogen Bombs.

He worked for many years as a lineman for Ameren UE until his retirement.

James loved reading, especially his bible. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, skeet shooting, fast pitch softball, listening to country music, and attending family gatherings. His greatest love was his family, spending time and traveling with his kids gave him great joy.

Memorial donations are suggested to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and may be sent in care of Fenton-Kendrick Funeral Home, 104 S. Collier St. Centralia, MO 65240.