Ethel L. Watkins, age 86, died on Sunday, February 18, 2018 at 2:59 a.m. at her residence in Alger.

She was born on March 17, 1931 in Estille, Kentucky to Nathan and Nancy (Conley) VanHoose who preceded her in death. On May 27, 1960 Ethel married Ralph Watkins who prededed her in death on December 24, 1985. 

Ethel retired from Rudolph Foods in Westminster after working as an assembler for 11 years. She was a life member of the Ada VFW Post #9381 Women’s Auxiliary. 

She is survived by two sons: Richard (Lynn) Hewitt of Belle Center and Ralph Eugene (Kathy) Watkins of Alger; three daughters: Terri (Mike) Miller of Alger, Sherri (Jeff) Pifer of Alger and Teresa (Greg) Kindell of Kenton; 14 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter; a brother, Harrison VanHoose of Greenville; and a sister, Betty McGinnis of Galion. 

Ethel was preceded in death by a great grandson, Terence Miller; three sisters: Blanche Collins, Mag Burkett and Pauline Phillips; and two brothers: Ralph VanHoose and Bobby Ray VanHoose. 

Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 21, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Alger with Pastor Kenneth VanHoose officiating. Burial will be in Preston Cemetery, Alger. 

Friends may call from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 20, and until the time of the service on Wednesday at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Alger. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Rita’s Hospice and/or a charity of the donor’s choice.