The Shadow
Richard Lee “Sarge” Watson
Richard Lee “Sarge” Watson, age 89, of Covington, died Thursday, June 12, 2025, at his residence.
Richard was born March 3, 1936, in Randolph County, WV, and was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Beulah Watson; his wife, Shelby Hubbard Watson; and a son, Ricky Watson; his twin brother, Robert Lewis Watson; five brothers, Edgar Landin Watson, Homer Doyle Watson, Wilbur Watson, William Watson, Delmes Watson; two sisters, Eva Watson Dressler Winkler and Helen Watson Kern; a special companion, Reba Byer; and Bill Dawson, his best friend.
He loved dogs and cats, and after rescuing them he would take them to the veterinarian for care. He enjoyed listening to Bluegrass Gospel Music and rebuilding computers and giving them to children. He always helped others whenever they needed him. Richard served in the United States Air Force for twenty-two years which included doing three tours in Vietnam. He was honored to escort his brother Delmas home after being killed in the war. He was a faithful member of Mount Carmel Methodist Church and Curtis A. Smith, Post 1033, VFW and retired in 1998 from Westvaco Corporation as a machine operator. Richard was a very special person and a great brother who was loved by all who knew him.
Richard leaves to mourn his loss, a daughter, Carol June Watson Williams; two granddaughters, Ashley Williams and Brittany; three grandsons, Corey, Caleb and Jacob Watson; a special companion, Wilda Reynolds; three brothers, Ralph Junior, Ed and Frank Watson; five sisters, Elsie Roth, Virginia Ousley, Janet Hayslett, Alma Midgett and Brenda Andrews and numerous family members.
Keeping with Mr. Watson’s wishes, his body has been cremated.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM with Rev. Doug Hollenback officiating, in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home.
The family will receive friends beginning at 12 noon on Thursday prior to the service.
Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling his arrangements.
The family suggest that memorial tributes take the form of contributions to Mt. Carmel Methodist Church, 1200 N. Alleghany Avenue, Covington, VA, 24426 or Alleghany Humane Society, 9313 Rich Patch Road, Covington, 24426.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at arrittfuneralhome.com.
