Donald Balfour Watson

family on Oct 26, 2026 in Sacramento, CA.

Born on Apr 23, 1933, in Providence, RI to Vernon Abner Watson and Vera Balfour Craig who died after childbirth. Vernon then married Corinne Lamson. Donald grew up in Riverside, RI; Seekonk, MA; and Lyford, TX and later resided in TX, Germany, and CA.

Donald married devoted life partner and vital supporter, Reda Fae Beloat (his

"Snuffy") on May 15, 1954, in Lyford TX. Despite Don's constant deployments, they shared a remarkable 72 years of marriage and raised two children, Larry and Pat.

Career-wise, Donald was in the National Guard and then enlisted in the Air Force at

the age of 17 requiring his father's signature consent. He served in the Air Force for 29yrs, achieving the rank of Senior Master Sergeant (E8). He served and protected our Nation during the Korean war, the Vietnam conflict and in countries throughout the world. His aviation career began as a mechanic on T29 planes, and he progressed to flight engineer on both the EC121 and the C5A (at that time the largest plane in the world). He retired honorably in 1979 with many awards, medals, and commendations.

During his retirement, he continued the complete restoration of his red 1968

Karmann Ghia convertible. Also, he and Reda enjoyed their 30' sailboat and extensive RVing throughout the US. Whether born out of necessity or desire to create, his innate engineering mind was evident in the ability to modify any tool or hand manufacture any device with a useful function. This frequently included the liberal use of J.B.Weld!

A patriot to the end, and despite physical challenges, he proudly displayed the

American flag daily and retrieved it every evening.

Donald is predeceased by his parents Vernon and Vera, and his brothers Robert

Watson and Ernest Neal Watson.

Donald Watson is survived by his wife, Reda Watson, his children Larry (Susan) Watson and Pat Watson Long; grandchildren Alicia (Dan) Gandy, Brianne (Doug) Long, Janae Long, Aubrey (Zack)Long, Nick Watson; great-grandchildren, Aiden Teague, Mackenzie Teague and soon baby Schaffer; and brother Duncan (Fil) Watson; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Those we love do not go away; they walk beside us every day.