Percy Watkins

Deacon Percy Watkins was born on December 17, 1933, to Walter and Katherine Watkins in Kansas City, MO. He was educated in the Kansas City, Missouri school system and graduated from R.T. Coles High School. Percy proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1953 to 1956.

After his military service, Percy worked various jobs before retiring from his final position with the United States Postal Service, where he worked from 1990 to 2000. Percy met the love of his life, Frankie Lee Sanders, at a McDonald’s and pursued her tirelessly until she said yes. His love for Frankie was unwavering; he would even drive from 10th Street to 47th Street during winter to clean her car—a testament to their beautiful love story. Percy and Frankie were united in holy matrimony on November 25, 1979.

Deacon Percy Watkins was baptized in Jesus’ Name at the Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ under the leadership of Bishop Daniel Chavis Jr. He was deeply devoted to God, his family—especially his grandchildren—his church family, and his passion for serving others. He had a heart for helping those in need, often giving freely of his time and resources, even before they knew they needed it. Percy also had a lifelong love for skating, which brought him much joy.

On Saturday, November 9, 2024, Deacon Percy Watkins peacefully departed this life at home, surrounded by his family and under the care of hospice. He was preceded in death by his immediate family, with the exception of one sister, Laura Warfield.

Deacon Percy leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 45 years, Frankie Watkins; his sister, Laura Warfield; two sons, Elder Larry (Renita) Sanders and Minister Michael (Monica) Sanders; three daughters, Beverly (Will) Williams, Pastor Angela Hollins, Barbara J. Waldron; one brother-in-law, Herbert Jr. (Rose) Shipp; 22 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives, his ACJC Church family, and many friends.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday at Apostlic Church of Jesus Christ located at 8310 Holmes Road Kansas City, Missouri 64131. The visitation will begin at 9:00am, with the service following at 10:00 am. 

Interment will be in Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, KS on Monday November 25, 2024 at 12:30 P.M.