Billy Ray Watson

In loving memory of our father, Billy Ray Watson 64, who passed away December 30, 2022, in Newport Richey Fl. Billy was born January 4, 1958, in Cumberland NC to the late Joseph Leroy Watson and Mary Alleen Edge. A graduate of St. Pauls High School Billy pursued a career in Machine Maintenance. He attended several technical schools and worked his way up to Maintenance Supervisor. Billy was very punctual and strived to always fix problems correctly. On several occasions, he built machines for his employers. He was an engineer without a degree most would say. Billy was known for his quick-witted humor, determination, and generous spirit. In his younger days, you’d find him playing the guitar with his late father and brother. Billy loved to be outdoors mostly fishing and site-seeing. He loved both the beach and the mountains. He spent the majority of his life in Statesville, NC. Early in life, Billy learned the importance of hard work. He was a man of strong faith and he taught us the importance of family, hard work, and doing what is right. He was a member of Victory Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother Joe Watson and a sister, Linda Hinson. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Brenda (Benton) Watson and sons Davey Watson wife Stephanie of Land O Lakes Fl, Greg Watson of Bryson City NC, and Jay Sibbett wife Hailey of Geneva Il. Daughters Christy Watson of Gadsden AL, Mary Elizabeth “Beth” Burke, and husband Justin of Statesville. Sisters Elaine Sides husband John of Cookville TN. Gail Shumaker husband Mark of Stony Point. He had sixteen grandchildren, Kaylynn, Clayton, Brenden, Jeremy, Boone, Charlotte, Holden, Christian, Sarah, Cayson, Austin, Caiden, Caleb Laiken, Atlas and Elliana. Funeral Services will be conducted Saturday January 7, 2023, 2:00 pm at Victory Baptist Church Statesville. Rev Jerry Shoemaker will officiate. Burial will follow in Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday, January 6, 2023, from 6:00 – 8:00 at Chapman Funeral Home. Chapman Funeral Home is serving the family of Billy Watson.

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Billy Ray Watson

January 4, 1958 - December 30, 2022