William Richard “Billy” Watson died peacefully Dec. 16, 2017 at home while surrounded by loved ones. His battle with cancer was done as he joined loved ones gone before. Born Dec. 8, 1950 he was the son of Dan C. and Martha L. Ogburn Watson.
After attending Sparks Aeronautics School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he enlisted in the U. S. Army where he continued in the field of aircraft mechanics. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and recognized as a M14 and M16 Sharpshooter.
He was a pioneer and dedicated employee who followed FedEx from Little Rock to Memphis while serving a 43 year career as aircraft maintenance lead man. He led a team who touted him as a great mentor, leader, trainer, friend and wonderful cook. He was known to many for his BBQ sauce and fried catfish, often serving as host and cook to family and friends of FedEx on days when “hold the load” became: “fire up the grill”.
He was of large personality, a cheerful giver, willing helper, a great brother and son, while being a good friend to many. He loved the outdoors, fishing and hunting, often shared with best friend, Reuben Parnell.
He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents, Richard and Oleta Reeves Ogburn along with Jim and Joanna Haltom Watson.
Survivors include his wife, Joleen Watson, a son, Wade Davis and grandson, Cameron Davis, his mother Martha Watson, two sisters, Cheryl Musticchi and Susan Ferguson, nieces, Crystal Musticchi Hogg (Will), Kelli Ferguson Kegley (Matt), two nephews, Trent Musticchi, and Lance Ferguson (Bekka), aunts, Dot Lewis, Emily Watson, Gloria Watson, Lurleen Watson Sanders, Bettye Ogburn Edwards (Jim), Phyllis Ogburn, and uncles, Pat Lewis and Ralph Ogburn and a host of cousins and friends.
Billy’s life will be celebrated Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Silver Hill United Methodist Church, 2091 Silver Hill Loop, Mt. Holly, AR with the Rev. Mike Wilkie officiating. Military honors will follow in Silver Hill Cemetery.
Honorary pallbearers include, Wade Davis, Biff Ogburn, Greg Ogburn, Tony Lewis, Lance Ferguson, Trent Musticchi, Jim Watson, Bill Watson, Tommy Watson, Pete Watson, Donald Watson, Terry Watson, Dale Payne, Travis Payne, Reuben Parnell, and Cameron Davis.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorials may be made to the Silver Hill Cemetery Fund, or to River City Ministry, 1021 E. Washington Avenue, % Marci Rhodes, North Little Rock, AR 72114.
An online registry will be available at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.