ALvin "Al" Watkins

Alvin (Al) Lee Watkins, 87, passed away on Wednesday October 14, 2020.  He was born on August 24, 1933 in Louisville, Kentucky and one of five children to Austin and Icie Watkins.

Al graduated from Valley High School in 1951 and was a well-recognized and gifted athlete.  He signed a professional baseball contract with the Philadelphia Phillies organization and played in the minor leagues for 3 years.  Al was an avid sports fan, in particular, baseball and horse racing at Churchill Downs.  He was a devoted and loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and loved holidays and family get-togethers.  Any chance to spend time with family was important to him.

He was preceded in death by both of his parents and two brothers, Jim and Don.

He is survived by his daughter Michelle Houchin (Billy); granddaughters, Tiffany, Tara, and Tracy Houchin; great-grandchildren Arlo and Rumi, brother Jerry Watkins (Jude) and sister Neda Root (Larry).

Funeral services will be held Monday at 1:00 pm at Louisville Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 4400 Dixie Highway.  Visitation will be Monday from 11:00 am until time of service.

Due to Covid restrictions masks are required to be worn during visitation and service and social distancing is expected.