William Larry Watson

William Larry Watson, born September 19, 1938, was greeted by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with, “You have done well, and proven yourself to be my loyal and trustworthy servant. Because you were faithful, you will experience the delight of your master. “Enter into the joy of your Lord!” on May 14, 2026.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents, John Manley and Viva Watson, his brother, Russell Watson, his sister, Norma Watson Ingle, and many beloved friends and relatives.

He is survived by his beloved wife of sixty-four years, Shirley Peace Watson, his children Philip Watson (Daniel), Lori Watson, Karla Watson Phillips, and Kelli Watson Carnes (Hunter).

Grandchildren Hannah Phillips, Emily Phillips, Cruz Phillips, Courtney Carnes, Casey Carnes, and his great-grandchildren Lillie Grace and Alia Marie. He is also survived by his beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and best friend Bobby West.

Larry, redeemed by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, lived as a devoted servant of Christ, faithfully caring for his family and church and trusting not in his own righteousness but in the atoning death and resurrection of Christ alone. He lived his life as a beautiful example of God’s unconditional love.

He grew up in Shoal Creek Valley, graduated from Ashville High School, and attended Jacksonville State University and Gadsden State.

As long as he was physically able, he joined many of his friends in disaster relief and in building and repairing churches on numerous mission trips both in and outside the United States.

He is a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served his country as an atomic weapons electronics assembler.

He was a brilliant electrical and mechanical engineer who worked in the steel-making industry for most of his life.

He enjoyed watching the University of Alabama football for many decades, especially with his family. He could be found many Friday nights listening to Southside High School football games on the radio or standing in his driveway.

All who knew him will understand, “he was a special one of a kind man, there is no one like him, and there never will be.”

Visitation will be held Monday, May 18, 2026, at Morgan Funeral Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Southside Baptist Church, with visitation beginning 30 minutes prior to the service. Davis Little will officiate. Morgan Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.