Chandler Reid Watkins Jr., owned construction company
Chandler Reid Watkins Jr., 88, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away Friday, Feb. 22, 2013, at Harbor Health Care in Lewes. He was born Jan. 17, 1925, in Oxford, N.C. to the late Chandler R. and Louise (Creecy) Watkins.
Mr. Watkins attended Oxford High School and Fishburne Military Prep School until he enlisted in the Air Force at the age of 18. After his military training, he attended North Dakota State College prior to shipping off to England to serve in World War II. After returning home to Oxford, Mr. Watkins partnered with his father and uncles in owning and operating tobacco warehouses.
He retired in the 1970s and relocated to Rehoboth Beach, where he participated in the restoration of many local homes. Mr. Watkins discovered a new passion and started C.R. Watkins Construction, working primarily in Lewes and Rehoboth Beach. When he was not working, he always looked forward to spending time with his family, on the beach and traveling, especially to Florida and Bermuda.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Watkins is predeceased by a son, Reid Watkins. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Margaret A. Watkins; a son, Jimmy Watkins and wife Harriett of Oxford; two daughters: Marsha Ellington and Jane Dickerson and her husband Scott, all of Oxford; four stepdaughters: Peggy Millman and husband George Yaksic of Rehoboth Beach, Beth Thomas of Lewes, Stephanie David and husband Geoff of Lewes,and Kathy McGuiness and husband Steve of Rehoboth Beach; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his beloved Beagle, Benjamin.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, or to Rehoboth Beach Main Street, Inc., P.O. Box 50, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.
