William C. "Bill" Watson, 93, of Mannington, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born to Ernie and Maude (Stevens) Watson, Bill was a lifelong resident of Mannington and a proud graduate of Mannington High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served during the Korean War. Most of his military service was spent in Japan, where he served as a Military Policeman.
This year, Bill and his beloved wife, Julia Watson (Belch) celebrated 68 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring love and commitment. Together they built a family that was the pride and joy of his life. Bill is survived by his wife, Julia; his five children, Randy Watson (Stacey), Roger Watson (Gina), Scott Watson (Elizabeth), Jennifer Watson, and David Watson (Rose); eleven grandchildren, Alva Ashley, Matthew Watson (Charlie), Casie Strosnider (Daniel), Kayla Gregory (Joseph), Jereme Watson, Rachel Watson (Ian), Jennifer Greene (Alex), Spencer Scoles (Jenna), Andrew Hall (Taylor), and Tyler Hall (Brittany); and eight great-grandchildren, Katie Ashley, Shaylyn Wolfe, Serayah Wolfe, Uriah Strosnider, Eden Strosnider, Cody Gregory, Anderson Watson, and Nolan Watson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernie and Maude Watson; his sisters, Clara Belle, Betty LeCompte, Dorothy Corbin, Rose Terwilliger, Mary Kennedy, and Emma Stanley; his brother, George Watson; and his beloved grandson, Colby Watson. While we grieve their absence, we find comfort in imagining a joyful reunion among those who have gone before him. Bill cherished time spent with family, whether relaxing together on the porch, traveling to the beach, attending football games, or simply taking a drive. He rarely passed up an opportunity to spend time on the road with those he loved.
Years after leaving the Air Force, Bill set out to reconnect with the men with whom he served with in Japan. His determination led to the organization of reunions for members of the 35th Air Police Squadron who had served at Johnson Air Force Base, Japan. These gatherings continued for many years, creating lasting friendships and treasured memories. The reunions brought Bill immense joy and became one of the highlights of his retirement. Bill will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his patriotism, his loyalty to friends, and his warm, steady presence. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and in the family, he loved so deeply.
Family and friends may call at Masters Funeral Home in Mannington, WV on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 from 2-7:00pm with a short funeral service starting at 7:00pm. Cremation has been chosen as the final method of disposition.