The Venerable Gilbert H. Watkins

The Venerable Gilbert H. Watkins, a resident of St. Albans, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 17, 2025, surrounded by his family at the Hubbard Hospice House. Born on January 1, 1930, in Birmingham, England, his life was marked by significant contributions and a profound sense of service. Gil’s military service began in 1948 and continued until 1950, during which he served in Egypt and North Africa. After his military service, he joined the esteemed Blackpool Police Force. On August 18, 1951, he married his beloved wife, Monica Parker, and they embarked on a journey together, eventually emigrating to Canada in 1951 and settling in Connecticut in 1952. A gifted mechanic and entrepreneur, Gil’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Gil’s Auto Service in 1957. Later, he founded WESCO Ford Tractor Agency. However, in 1974, he answered a deeper calling and was ordained as an Episcopal priest. His religious journey took him to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Williamson, West Virginia, where he served as Rector from 1974 to 1978. Subsequently, he served at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in St. Albans, West Virginia, from 1978 to 1993. During his tenure at St. Mark’s, he founded Christ’s Kitchen in 1984. After retiring in 1993, Gil continued to serve faithfully as a supply priest and later as Priest-in-Charge at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Huntington from 1997 to 2009. Gil is survived by his children, including Gil Watkins (Anne), Kay Rotz (Cliff), Jason Watkins (Karen), and Grace Newell (Todd). He also has nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. His sister, Barbara Marafiote, and extended family across England, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, also mourn his loss. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife and soulmate of 72 years, Monica. Gil had a lifelong passion for adventure—especially motorcycles, airplanes, and sports cars. He also enjoyed blacksmithing, tinsmithing, and history. His life was marked by service, curiosity, and a deep love for his family and faith. A memorial service for both Gil and Monica will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, St. Albans, WV at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to HospiceCare, 1606 Kanawha Blvd W, Charleston, WV 25387, Christ’s Kitchen, P.O. Box 248, St. Albans, WV 25177, or Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association, 1248 Greenbrier Street, Charleston, WV 25311. You may visit Gil’s tribute page at BartlettNichols.com to share memories or condolences with the family. Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home, family owned and located at 409 Sixth Avenue, St. Albans is honored to serve the Watkins family.

The Venerable Gilbert H. Watkins

January 1, 1930 - August 17, 2025