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Eddie Watson, Sr., 80, passed away on December 5, 2021. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Margie, his son Eddie, Jr and daughter-in-law Beth, his daughter Jennifer and son-in-law Mark, his son Chris, his son Charles and daughter-in-law Kelly, seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Born on October 21, 1941 in Wewoka, OK to Ed and Lois (Shorty) Watson, Eddie was the second of eight children; Phyllis Gilliland, Jack Watson, Jerry Chambles, Bobby Watson, and Terry Watson. Eddie is preceded in death by sister Sharon Shipley, brother Dennis Watson, and three grandchildren. Eddie was proud of his Native American heritage as a member of the Chickasaw Nation. Growing up in Synder, TX, Eddie showed a strong work ethic at an early age by picking cotton, using a bag his mom made for him, to help provide for his family. This desire to provide for his family and always do a good job were lifelong values. Eddie attended Snyder High School where he was a well-liked athlete who also was known to enjoy his practical jokes played on friends and around campus. He was a part of the Snyder Tigers football team all four years, making All-District in 1959. According to the Snyder newspaper, Eddie and the quarterback, Dick Hayes, were labeled the “Tiger Twins” for their skill on the field. Eddie was also a member of the Snyder Boys’ Club Boxing team; several of his sparring partners remember Eddie’s ferocity in the ring. His love for boxing remained for his entire life, and he was often found bobbing and weaving in his chair when watching a fight scene in a movie. After high school, Eddie enlisted in the Navy as a Seaman Recruit, graduating from boot camp in the Spring of 1960. Eddie served two tours in Vietnam. After Vietnam, Eddie served on numerous ships and was promoted to Master Chief, the highest Enlisted rank. Immediately after being selected for Master Chief, Eddie was recognized for his exceptional leadership ability and sustained superior performance; he was then selected to transition to Warrant Officer. After his commissioning, Eddie’s performance and expertise earned him promotions through W4. As a Retired Veteran, the Navy remained an important part of Eddie’s life. He proudly told anyone he met that he was retired Navy and would joke and swap sea stories with veterans of all branches of the military. After retirement, Eddie enjoyed spending time with family and traveling to National Parks and museums with Margie. He devoted much of his time to family and friends; watching football, golf, westerns, war movies, and the occasional Hallmark movie; taking his grandchildren for rides on the tractor; and fishing at his pond with his grandchildren. He was often found working on his land and in his barn and would be the first to offer help when anyone called to ask his advice. Eddie had a fondness for casinos, just not of winning; but he always made sure his family heard if he walked away a winner. Anyone who met Eddie would comment to Margie and his family that he was a great guy, resulting in a grin from ear to ear. Eddie’s memory will live on in the many stories told by his family and friends. ♪ Tom and Jerry went to the circus ♪ In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, a charity Eddie always said he would give some of his lottery winnings to should he ever win.

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Eddie Lee Watson Sr.

October 21, 1941 - December 5, 2021