Gary L. Watkins

Gary L. Watkins, 89, of Medina, Ohio passed away peacefully at the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus, Wednesday, October 22, 2025 after a short illness.

 He was born April 5, 1936 at home during a snow storm to the late Elwyn and Olive (Parfitt) Watkins.  He grew up on the farm in Litchfield Township. Gary attended Litchfield schools and graduated from Buckeye High School.

He married his high school sweetheart, Aileen Arrington on October 5, 1957 and they enjoyed 68 years together.  He proudly served in the United State Army. After his discharge, they moved to Valley City where he served on the fire department for many years.

He worked for Ohio Pipe & Supply Co. for 39 years retiring in 1998.

Gary loved his Dallas Cowboys, NASCAR and he was an avid gardener.

He is survived by his loving wife, Aileen, daughter Beth (Terry) Jenne, grandchildren, Joseph (Becky) Jenne, Rachel (Chris) Watkins and Brandy Watkins; great grandchildren, Payton Jenne, Troy Jenne, Rileigh Simpson and Payton Simpson; sister Nancy (Larry) Matthews.

He was preceded death by his daughter, Diane Watkins and his son,

David Watkins.

Family and friends are invited to a Graveside Service at Myrtle Hill Cemetery, Valley City, on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials are suggested to Shriners Children’s Hospital or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

The Bauer Funeral Home, Valley City, Ohio has the honor or serving the Watkins family.

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