Ralph Armstead Watkins Jr.

Watkins, Ralph Armstead Jr.
Ralph Armstead Watkins, Jr., 83, passed away peacefully at home on August 2, 2009, in Glendale, Arizona. He is survived by his wife, Patricia of 57 years, and two children: Cynthia Haggard (Dale Haggard deceased) and Ralph Watkins, III (Michele Watkins), six grandchildren (Bradley and Wyatt Haggard, Ralph Watkins IV, Kristina, Brandon and Grant) and four great-grandchildren. Ralph was born in Phoenix, Arizona on July 29, 1926. Ralph was a named most distinguished alumni of Roswell, New Mexico, Military Institute (NMMI). He graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Economics and Political Science. He later was awarded most distinguished alumni and served as a member of the Arizona Board of Regents. He was an avid supporter of education. Ralph served his country as a Marine in the Korean War and World War II. He later became civilian aide to the Secretary of Army for the state of Arizona. Senator Barry Goldwater appointed him chairman of the Navajo/Hopi Relocation Commission. Ralph was the past chairman of the Arizona Department of Transportation. He was the youngest, Past Department Commander for the American Legion. Ralph loved his country and served diligently on many additional boards and committees to numerous to name. He had the opportunity to meet every President of the United States since President Eisenhower. Ralph recently became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Services for Ralph Watkins Jr. will be held on Monday August 10, 2009 at the LDS church, 8702 W. Campbell, Glendale, AZ. Viewing will take place at 9:00a.m. with funeral services to follow at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona following the services. Ralph was a kind, generous and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. His family cherished his sharp wit, intelligence and charity to everyone in his life. Ralph's, love, influence and example will live forever in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to: Ralph A. Watkins Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 671, Peoria, AZ 85380.