Ronald “Ron” Linton Watkins, 89, passed away on October 19, 2025.

Ronald “Ron” Linton Watkins, 89, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, in Forsyth, Missouri. He was born February 29^th, 1936, in Wichita, KS to Harold and Sarah (Smith) Watkins.

            Ron has resided in Forsyth for the last 20 years, previously he was a resident of Wichita KS. Graduating from East High School in 1954. Ron was diagnosed with rheumatic fever as a teenager, and bedridden for a year. Doctors told him at that time he may not be able to walk again. He proved them wrong. After high school he joined a roller speed skating team in Wichita. The 2 relay teams he was on, broke records, and set records that still have not been broken and won 2 national titles. 

            Ron married the love of his life Barbara, November 3^rd, 1962, in Wichita and were blessed with 4 daughters. Ron worked for many years as a maintenance supervisor for St. Joseph Hospital, Wichita. In 1981, he moved his family to Grove, OK where he was a bowling alley manager for many years, before returning to Wichita, in 1989. Upon his return to Wichita, he worked for Cessna Aircraft until he retired in 2001.

            In his free time, he enjoyed being active. He was an avid bowler and played softball for many years. He enjoyed going to and participating in garden tractor pulls. Ron loved working on little things, fixing things and building small motors for just about anything. He always had a smile on his face and could start up a conversation with anyone. Ron always had time to help others when in need. His heart was always in the right place.

             He leaves behind 3 daughters, Marla Kelly (Tom) of Pawnee, OK, LaVona Watkins of Missouri, Tammy Gipson of Branson; brother Dave Stearns (Sharon) of Eau Claire, WI; sister Joyce Glaze (Richard) of Chippewa Falls, WI; 4 grandchildren Zechariah Kelly of Pawnee, Brandon Winton, of Wichita, Lindsey Gipson of Branson, Dylan Gipson of Wichita. 4 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.

            Ron was preceded in death by his dear wife Barbara J Watkins; Father Harold Watkins, Mother Sarah (Smith) Watkins; stepmother Letha Watkins; daughter Sheryl Watkins; sisters, Lynda Overby and Judy Piper; and grandchildren Tyler and Taylor Watkins.

            Graveside service will be on Saturday, October 25^th, 1:00 pm at Blanche Cemetery, in Dora, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel.