Roger Watkins, 86, of Washington, DC, formerly of Ogdensburg, PA, passed awayearly Monday, December 16, 2013, at Brinton Woods Health & Rehab Center in Washington, DC

Roger Royal Watkins was born on June 25, 1927 at the family home in Ogdensburg, one of 13 children in the family of the late Lena Jane (Boyce), Royal Earl Watkins and stepfather Russell High. He was a 1944 graduate of Canton High School and a member of the Ogdensburg Church of Christ. Roger then enrolled in the ROTC program and received a Bachelors of Science degree in Meteorology from Penn State University. After serving in China with the U.S. Navy during WWII, Mr. Watkins remained in the Naval reserves from 1946 to 1990, earning the rank of Lt. Commander.

Roger traveled all over the world in his civilian career as a meteorologist with the federal government. He had many interests throughout life. Roger especially enjoyed dancing and was an accomplished tennis player and golfer. He also possessed a wonderful singing voice and entertained in several barbershop quartets.

Surviving are his brothers and sisters; Glen (Marie) Watkins of Rushville, PA, Connie (Steve) Smith of Canton, Harold Watkins of Apalachin, NY, Mary Ellis of Lakeland, FL, Chuck (Patricia) High of Middletown and Carole (Chet) Harer of Rehoboth, DE, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He also leaves behind his dear friend, Diana Tiberi of Washington DC.

In addition to his parents and stepfather, he was predeceased by six brothers; Stewart. Johnny, Foster, Robert, Clarence and Stanley.

Calling hours are 11 – 11:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 20, at Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Dr. Canton. Rev. Duane Taylor will officiate the funeral and committal service at 11:30 a.m. followed by military honors accorded at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Ogdensburg Cemetery.