Obituary of Sheldon P. Watkins

Sheldon P. Watkins PEABODY – Sheldon P. Watkins, 82, beloved husband of Sharon (Cartwright) Watkins, died peacefully at his home on Thursday April 18, 2019, while in the comforting presence of his family. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Palmer and Louise (Drew) Watkins. He grew up in Peabody, and graduated from the Peabody Vocational High School, Class of 1954. He also graduated from Newbury Junior College with a degree in Business Management in 1972. He served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War as an Operating Room Tech in Texas, where he met his wife to begin their life together over 63 years ago. Mr. Watkins was a truck driver with Empire Clothing, North Shore Petroleum, and with Ryder Trucks Rental. Sheldon was a Scout Master with the Boy Scouts, Troop 38 of Peabody for several years. He also enjoyed woodworking and made numerous projects like cribbage boards or porch swings for family and friends. He enjoyed camping, especially to Acres of Wildlife in Maine. He was most passionate about his devotion to family, and loved spending time with all four generations. He is survived by his wife Sharon (Cartwright) Watkins of Peabody, with whom he shared 61 years of marriage; two sons and two daughters, Kevin Watkins and his wife Cindy, Rebecca Larrabee and her husband Jeff, Kimberly Hartigan and her husband Patrick, and Christopher Watkins and his wife Patty; seven grandchildren, Glenn, Jeremy, Melanie, Nathaniel, Brianna, Joshua, and Lauren; five great-grandchildren, Evelynne, Nora, Max, Hailey, and Emily; two sisters Sharon Mazzeo and her husband Ralph, and Lorraine Gaylardo and her husband Bill, and several nieces and nephews. Following cremation, relatives and friends are kindly invited to gather for a Memorial Service on Saturday April 27, 2019 at 11 AM at the Melrose Church of Christ, 409 Upham St., Melrose. Private Urn burial in Cedar Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to a charity of one’s choice.