Coach Bobby J. Watkins, 83, went to be with his Lord on Friday, May 6, 2011 at The Waters of Princeton.

He was born March 19, 1928, to Roy and Elizabeth (Camp) Watkins.

Bob graduated from Princeton High School in 1946 and from Indiana State Teacher's College in 1953. He earned a master's degree from Indiana State in 1962. He served two years in the U.S. Army, Sixth Armored Division.

To Bob, basketball was more than a game - it was a way of life. He devoted his life to teaching and coaching, and enjoyed the challenge of developing the physical, mental and emotional skills in his players. He began his teaching and coaching career in 1955 at Baldwin Heights School. His 1960-61 undefeated eighth-grade basketball team was nicknamed "The Untouchables." In high school, this same team later advanced to semi-state in 1965.

Bob was inspired at an early age by the baseball teams and coaches of the American Legion. He assisted coaching the Legion team in 1965 to the state runner-up title. In 1969-70, he moved to Princeton Community High School as a teacher and head basketball coach. He was the head coach until 1974, winning three sectionals and a holiday tourney. He taught industrial arts and coached again in 1979 at the middle school and junior varsity levels.

His 1982-83 eighth-grade basketball team was also undefeated and the conference champs. He concluded his teaching career at the high school in 1989 and his coaching career in 1990, serving as an assistant coach his final three years. Reflecting on his career, he indicated that the friendships with coaches, fans and former players were a tremendously important part of his life. Unable to attend the basketball games due to health reasons, he faithfully listened to the games on WRAY Radio.

He was a member of the Enon General Baptist Church serving as an assistant teacher until ill health. Recently, he was working with Tim Nonte, Joyce Nonte, Malinda Gilbert and John Mullen on a book entitled, "A History of Princeton/Princeton Community Boys Basketball 1908-2011" to be published later this year.

He is survived by two sisters, Carroll (Joe) Corn, Joann Malott; and several nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Rosella Watkins, Helen Reed and Beulah Stephens.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at the Enon General Baptist Church in Princeton with the Rev. Tammy Scheller officiating. Burial will follow at Clark's Cemetery in Owensville. VFW Post 1147 will provide military rites at the cemetery.

Friends may call from 4 - 8 p.m. Monday at Colvin Funeral Home in Princeton and from 9 - 10 a.m. Tuesday at the church.