Wilford "Willie" Watson

1930 - 2018

Lubbock- Wilford "Willie" Watson, 88, of Lubbock went to be with his Heavenly Father Thursday, June 28, 2018. He was born June 17, 1930 the youngest of ten, to J.J and Maebelle (Hagard) Watson in Beaver County, Oklahoma. The family moved from the farm into the town of Beaver in 1935, where he attended school through 7th grade. The family relocated in 1942 to Darrouzett, Texas, where he went on to graduate high school in 1947 as the Salutatorian. Willie enrolled in Texas Tech in January 1948. While attending Texas Tech he enlisted in the U.S Navy on January 17, 1951 and served during the Korean War. While in the Navy, he attended a fire control technician school and was second in his class, he also served aboard the USS Chemung until his time of discharge December 10, 1954 when he returned to Texas Tech. In 1956, he graduated from Texas Tech with a degree in Civil Engineering. After graduation, he went to work in the engineer department for the City of Lubbock. During this time, he was made Sr. Civil Engineer in charge of the water and sanitation sewer department.

Willie joined Forrest Heights United Methodist Church September 23, 1956 and immediately joined the choir, where he would continue to sing his praises for 51 years. He met Lou Ann Sullivan in the choir and married that gal December 16, 1957. Willie always enjoyed singing and sang in the Glee Club while in college and joined the local chapter of SPEBSSA - Barbara shop Chorus in 1958. He was also the lead singer in a quartet, "The Cromatics". Willie enjoyed his wood working shop in the backyard and built many, many, many bird houses.

Willie is survived by the love of his life, Lou Ann; daughter, Lynn Lehman and husband Todd; four grandchildren, Haley McElwain and husband Evan, Kaylan Shaw and husband Ben, Savanna and Trevor.

He is preceded in death by his parents; nine siblings; and beloved son, Andy.

Visitation will be from Monday, July 2, 2018 2:00 - 7:00 p.m. with family receiving friends from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Combest Family Funeral Homes. A memorial service will be Tuesday, July 3, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Forrest Heights United Methodist Church with a committal service at 2:00 p.m. at the City of Lubbock Cemetery.