Billy Lee Watkins, 87, of Symsonia passed away at 8:50 a.m. Friday, February 28, 2020 at his home. Billy was a member of Clarks River Baptist Church for over 35 years and served on various committees through the years. He was a member of the 1951 graduating class of Symsonia High School.
He attended Murray State College and the University of Kentucky, earning a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and Vocational Education and a master’s degree in school administration. Billy served as teacher, principal, and was Program Coordinator for Vocational Education for Region One schools. Billy was Superintendent when the Graves County Schools consolidated and served on many committees at the local, regional and state levels. He also enjoyed farming, both row cropping and raising Hereford cattle. Billy loved Symsonia and Graves County. No matter where he traveled, he always looked forward to coming back home to “Slab Town.” He loved being with people, telling a good story, and watching UK Basketball games.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Peggy Ann (Ivy) Watkins; two daughters, Lisa Gamble and Angelia Perkins, both of Symsonia; three grandchildren: Andrew (Cate) Perkins of Lexington, KY, Lea Ann (Kevin) Stahr, and Elizabeth “Liz” (Logan) Walker both of Symsonia; four great-grandchildren: Walter Perkins, Lane Stahr, Madison Walker, and Bryson Walker; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hilton Watkins and Audrey Barnes Watkins; one sister, Martha Ann Wyatt, and a son-in-law, Joey Gamble.
Services will be held Monday, March 2, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at the Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Rev. Jeff Collins officiating. Burial will follow at the Symsonia Cemetery. Visitation will be held today, Sunday, March 1, from 3:00-8:00 p.m. at the Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.
Expression of sympathy may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Kentucky Chapter, 6100 Dutchmans Lane, Suite 401, Louisville, KY 40205
You may light a candle or leave a message of sympathy at www.milnerandorr.com.