Vernon R. Watkins

Vernon R. Watkins, age 95 of Fairborn, passed away Friday January 29, 2021.  He was born January 29, 1926 in Morgan Co., KY, the son of the late Jesse and Grace (Burgess) Watkins.  Vern was employed as a security guard at General Motors, retiring after 40 years of service; and he also retired from Greene County where he served as a Deputy Sheriff and Bailiff for many years.  He was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge 755 in Morgan County, KY; and he was an avid gun and knife collector.

Vern’s wife of 70 years, Nella Jean (Peyton) Watkins, preceded him in death just a few short months ago on November 12, 2020.  Also preceding him in death were three brothers, John Watkins, Jesse “Kermit” Watkins, Lelan Watkins; and four sisters, Gusteen Byrd, Lillian Davis, Malcolm Tong,  and Nila Mae Trent.

Survivors include numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.  A funeral service will be held on Tuesday February 2, 2021 at 12:00 P.M. at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, Pastor H. Wesley Barnhill officiating.  The family will receive friends from 11:00 A.M. until the time of service.  Entombment will follow at the Byron Cemetery Mausoleum.  Memorial contributions if desired may be made to Hospice of Dayton.