Robert Lewis Watkinson

Robert Lewis Watkinson, Harrington, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the family he loved dearly, on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, he was 88. Robert was born in Accomack County, Virginia, son of the late, Robert Franklin and Ruth Virginia Watkinson of Greenbush, Virginia.

Robert grew up in Greenbush, VA and graduated from Parksley High School class of 1955. He went on to serve in the U.S. Army as a Military Police from 1961 to 1963. He moved to Delaware in the 1960’s where he drove, owned, and trained harness horses, campaigning at Liberty Bell, Brandywine, Laurel, Baltimore, Ocean Downs, Georgetown, Pocono Downs, Dover Downs, and Harrington Raceway. He also served as a second trainer for Harrington Case, Vernon Crank, and James Stokley. In his later years, he groomed for Robert Wyatt until his retirement in 2003.

When he was not hard at work, he enjoyed watching television, yard work, cutting grass, and spending time with his twin brother Ben. He also was an avid Olympic watcher and a Phillies baseball fan. Robert was easy to get a long with and laid back. He enjoyed good conversation and spending time with family. Robert truly loved his wife, children, grandchildren and was very proud of them all. He will be sorely missed.

Robert was a member of the Asbury United Methodist Church of Harrington, Harrington Senior Center, and the AARP.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Margaret Ann Williams.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Della Case Watkinson; son, Joseph R. (Linda) Watkinson; daughter, Elizabeth A. (Robert) Culver; twin brother Benjamin F. (Janice) Watkinson; grandchildren, Fawn R., Brooke N., and Meadow H. Watkinson, Riley C. Culver.

A Memorial Service will take place at the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home, 15522 South Dupont Hwy., Harrington, DE, on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 12 noon with a visitation starting at 11 AM. Interment will follow immediately after the service at the Hollywood Cemetery, Harrington.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Asbury United Methodist Church of Harrington or to the Harrington Senior Center.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home, please visit us at www.melvinfuneralhome.com to express or send condolences.