Paul H. Watkins, 95, of Virginia, Illinois, died Sunday, February 15, 2026.

Paul was born January 20, 1931, in Chandlerville, the son of Edward A. and Mary Frances (Colston) Watkins. He married Carmen Louise Shultz on October 19, 1956, in Virginia.

He is survived by two daughters, Paula Kay Hambrick of Virginia, and Candace (Mitch) Thomas of Iowa City, IA; four granddaughters, Elizabeth Howell (Terry Pratt) and their children Chaz and Kenley, of Kilbourne, Christy (Ryan) Mangold and their son Lane, of Rushville, Dr. Jacintha Thomas (James Davis) of Omaha, NE, and Alleyna Allmon (Jackson) of North Liberty, IA; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Carmen; his parents; his brother, Gerald; and his sister, Margaret.

Paul graduated from Chandlerville High School and served his country, in the Army, during the Korean War. He worked as a repairman for Herman's Home Appliances for forty-one years, retiring in 1999. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Virginia, volunteered for the Cass County Food Pantry and delivered meals for the Bread of Love. He loved traveling and spending time with his family, walking his dog and working outdoors.

A graveside service will be held at 1 PM Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Walnut Ridge Cemetery in Virginia. Memorial donations are suggested to the First Presbyterian Church of Virginia. The Buchanan and Cody Funeral Home in Virginia is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be left at buchanancody.com.