Kevin Watkins, who worked for Southend Council for 38 years, passed away on July 9 at Fair Havens Hospice after his health rapidly declined over the past three months. The 56-year-old had also spent the last decade working at Southend crematorium, and was described as an 'absolute gentleman.' (Image: Michelle Lane)Michelle Lane, Mr Watkins’ sister-in-law, said: "I am devastated for his immediate family. (Image: Michelle Lane)Mr Watkins had been receiving palliative care at home, but his condition worsened faster than expected. During my runs I visited all the places Kevin loved like the places he worked and where he got married."