Born on March 8, 1938, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Luther Watson Sr. and Robbie Watson. He made Akron, Ohio his home, where he touched countless lives through his ministry, work, and personal relationships. He was truly a man of God, a man of valor, and a servant whose life reflected integrity, wisdom, strength, and grace.
As the pastor of South Street Mission Church, he dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel, guiding souls to Christ, and ministering to others with compassion, wisdom, and love. He believed in the power of prayer and living by God’s Word. He was a spiritual father and source of encouragement to many.
He was known for his strong work ethic and served with excellence, Retiree of BMV, Babcock & Wilcox after 30 years of service, GOJO Industries, and Tenable Protective Services Inc. He was respected for his dedication, integrity, and professionalism.
He found joy in gardening, landscaping, and cooking. As a former chef, he used his culinary gifts to bless others, often expressing love through the meals he prepared.
Above all, Pastor Richard E. Watson cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, treasured grandfather, and proud great-grandfather. He led his family with humility, strength, prayer, and unwavering love, leaving a lasting legacy that will be cherished for generations.
Pastor Watson was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Luther Watson Sr. and Robbie Watson; his brothers, Luther Watson Jr., Carver L. Watson, and Reverend William H. Watson (Lucille); his sister, Romelia Watson; and his cousin, Odell Corbitt.
He leaves to cherish his precious memory his loving wife, Dottie J. Watson; his daughters Michelle and Marquitta; stepchildren, Monique, Gregory Jr. (Earlene), George (Carie), Mark, and Dorothy (Ron); his sister, Laura Rembert; his sister in-laws Karen (Steve) Jackson, Elayne (Rick) Poston, Melina (Clyde) Phillips, Barbara Mason, Sandra Williams-Carter; his brothers, Royzell Watson (Diana) and Vernor Watson (Roz); his brother in-laws; his cherished best friend Bishop Ronald Higginbottom, Bonus Son Bro. Terrence; along with 23 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and dear friends.
An Hour of Calling will be held at Rose Hill Funeral Home, 3653 W Market St, Akron, OH 44333, US, on July 9, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by the Funeral Service at Rose Hill Funeral Home from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. Final resting place will be Rose Hill Funeral Home & Burial Park, 3653 W Market St, Akron. After the burial, the family invites attendees to return to the funeral home for the repass.
If you are unable to attend, the family invites you to join via livestream at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c26078014476142
