Billy Ray Watson, 73, of Hoffman, passed away on Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at his home in Hoffman. Mr. Watson was born June 29, 1935 to the late James G. and Hattie Watson.

After his retirement, he made his home at the Watson Homeplace in Hoffman. He was a member of the Hoffman Methodist Church.

He was preceded in death by brothers, James, Harvey, Roland and Earl Watson and a sister Margaret W. Mallard.

A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, February 7, 2009 at 3:00 p.m. at Watson-King Funeral Home Chapel in Rockingham with Rev. Joey Byrd officiating.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Nora Boan Watson. Four children, Pamela and husband Bobby of Hoffman, Lela and husband John of Rock Hill, SC., Jimmy and wife Christal and Darryl and wife Donna, all of Hoffman. Also surviving are his sisters Louise W. Chabot and Jean W. Thomas of Fayetteville and Sally W. Russell of Charlotte. Brothers, John Howard Watson and Jack Watson, both of Rockingham and Glenn F. Watson of Ellerbe. And many nieces, nephews and friends.

The family will receive friends Saturday from 1-3 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Richmond Co. Hospice, 1119 N. US Hwy. #1, Rockingham, NC 28379.

Online condolences can be made at www.watson-kingfuneralhome.com

Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is serving the Watson family.

— Paid obituary

Richmond County Daily Journal

Friday, Feb. 6, 2009