William Larry Watkins

William Larry Watkins, age 67, of Nixa, passed away, Monday July 20, 2015, in West Yellowstone, Montana. He was born August 7, 1947 in Anderson, Indiana, the son of William Logan and Thelma (Roy) Watkins. Larry was raised in Albion, IL. On June 4, 1967, Larry was united in marriage to Shirley Jean Litherland, celebrating 48 years together. Larry loved God and was a founding member of Countryside Christian Church, Nixa. Larry loved his family and he was always there for them. He was very interested in studying the family genealogy. Larry and Shirley loved traveling across the country. He enjoyed going to England to cruise the British Canals in the Narrowboats. Larry was an amateur photographer, and took many pictures during their travels. Larry graduated in 1967 from United Electronics Institute with a degree in electronics technology. He was a computer engineer for Digital Equipment Corporation which later became Hewlett Packard and retired after 38 years. Larry was interested in antique cars; he enjoyed going to car shows and showing his bright yellow Mustang. Larry also enjoyed scootering around Nixa. He loved to wear bright colors and incorporated them into his clothes, orange being his favorite. Larry lived life to its fullest and will be greatly missed. Survivors include: his mother, Thelma Jean Roy, his wife Shirley, two children, Kelly Watkins, William "Tracy" Watkins, and his wife Joni; grandchildren, Haley Gatewood, his wife Crystal, and Chelsea Fury, her husband Jonathan; great-grandchildren, Isaac and Adele Gatewood, Walker and Kinsley Fury; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends Larry was preceded in death by his father. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 25, 2015 in Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, with Rodney McCann officiating. Burial will follow in Rivermonte Memorial Gardens, Springfield. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until service time Saturday in the funeral home. In Larry's honor the family requests those attending the service to wear bright colored clothing. Memorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Countryside Christian Church, 3350 West Jackson, Nixa, Missouri 65714.