Robert N. Watson's Obituary
There are Princes among men, those that fill our lives with love and joy, whose hearts beat with a warrior’s determination. Bob was such a Prince. He loved sports (go Tigers!), gardening and jazz, but he loved them more in the company of his sons, grandchildren, and most of all his devoted wife, Barbara. Bob died on Saturday morning surrounded by the family he loved so well; he was 94.
Bob, the son of Louise Gaskin Watson and John Burris Watson, was born February 5, 1929, in Chesterfield County, SC and grew up in Greensboro, NC. He graduated from Grimsley High School where he played football for the Whirlies and received the Robert B. Jamieson Award and continued to Guilford College on an athletic scholarship.
Bob had an itch for travel, many times disappearing for days; in 1951 it got the best of him and he joined the Navy during the Korean Conflict. Upon completing his service he went to work with Southern Bell selling Yellow Page advertising. His territory kept him on the road all over NC, and it was during this time he met Barbara the “love of his life” on a blind date in Charlotte.
Bob was known to be gifted and generous, working in the community as a PTA president while the boys were in school. He also worked hard to support their youth athletic associations. In 1991, he retired, after 36 years to focus on his grandchildren, golf, and gardening. His love of flowers and working in his yard delighted and inspired friends and family. His tulip garden was a source of beauty for people who passed his home on Rocky River Road.
His sense of humor, gentle nature, joy of life and contagious happiness will forever be cherished by those who knew him, loved him, and were loved by him.
Bob was a member of College Park Baptist Church in Greensboro and after moving to Charlotte enjoyed fellowship and membership in Glenwood, New Covenant and Back Creek ARP Churches, where he served as deacon, elder and elder emeritus. In addition, he worked with youth groups, and was a popular Sunday School teacher.
Bob is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his two sons Jeff and wife Elizabeth; Steve, and wife Cindy; five cherished grandchildren Ann, Kelly, Wil, Stephanie, and Ashleigh.
A celebration will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 25th, at Back Creek Church, 1821 Back Creek Church Rd. Charlotte, NC 28213, with a reception to immediately follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Back Creek Church PO Box 620052, Charlotte NC 28262.
James Funeral Home is assisting the family, online condolences may be made at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?