Bobby Joe Watson, a cherished husband & father, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at the age of 81.

Born on August 1, 1943, in Jackson County, NC, Bobby lived a life rich with adventure and joy. He was known for his love of hunting & fishing, spending countless hours by the water or in the woods, finding peace and excitement in the outdoors. Bobby was also known for his story telling abilities, his funny jokes, and his love for bluegrass music. He also enjoyed watching the Georgia Bulldogs, Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Braves, and Nascar Racing. Bobby will be deeply missed by family and friends who remember him for his warmth and adventurous spirit.

Bobby was a Freemason of Latham Lodge #12 of Austell, Georgia, since April 5, 1979, and has led a good Christian life in following the rules of the Masonic Temple.

His passion for old Western movies was also a defining feature of his character, and he delighted in sharing these classic tales of courage and camaraderie with those around him. A true wanderer at heart, Bobby also embraced travel with enthusiasm, exploring new places and cultures with curiosity and zest. Bobby & his wife Bonnie have visited 3 continents, 15 countries, all 50 states, and countless Caribbean islands. Having worked in the vending business for the Allegheny Co., Macke Company, and Wittenborg USA. Bobby retired from Coca Cola Enterprises in 2005 as a Certified Fountain Technician.

Bobby is survived by his devoted spouse of 61 years, Bonnie Cheek Watson, Son, Michael Watson, Daughter Michelle Watson, Brother Glenn Watson (Barbara), sisters-in-law Jean Crane (Fred), Wanda Parrish, Linda Turpin, and Janet Scott (Gary), brothers-in-Law Johnny Cheek (Stephainie) and David Cheek (Cindy), nieces Cindy Watson Cabe (David), Renee Crane Burt (Bryan), Donna Crane Ledford (Brandon),Vickie Cheek Dunning( Matt), Valerie Cheek Miller (Danny), Miranda Cheek, and Jessica Scott, and nephews Jerry Watson (Barbara), Freddie Watson (Susan),, Ricky Crane (Karen), Daniel Crane, Chad Parrish, Everett Parrish, and Matthew Scott, and a special cousin Alfred Watson (Betty). Bobby was preceded in death by his parents Eldon Dewey Watson & Ila Bell Sorrells Watson, sisters-in-law Joyce Cheek and Joann Crane (Donnie), brothers-in-Law Alvin Turpin and Bobby Parrish and great nephew Jerry Watson, Jr. He is also preceded in death by man's best friend Milo where they enjoyed many walks and special moments together.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Macon Funeral Home where family and loved ones will gather to honor and celebrate Bobby's remarkable life. Pallbearers for the Memorial Service will be Freddie Watson, David Cheek, Everett Parrish, Bryan Burt, Ricky Crane, and Bryson Burt. Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Cheek, Jerry Watson, Zachary Crane, Xander Crane, Dylan Burt, and Chad Parrish. Burial will be in the Prentiss Church of God Addington Cemetery, 59 Church Hill Lane, Franklin, NC.

Family will receive friends Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Macon Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Masonic Children's Home, 1417 Nottingham Drive, Macon, GA in Bobby's memory.