Charley Bob Watson

Charley Bob Watson of Atlanta, Missouri, passed away peacefully at Samaritan Hospital on Monday, May 6, 2024.
Charley was survived by his wife Carolyn and their son, Charles (April) Watson, all of Atlanta. He is also survived by grandchildren Aleassa, Calli and Josh and his sisters, Jo Carol (Larry) Porter of Lee's Summit, Becky Sue (Jim) Hathcock of Lee's Summit and his sisters-in-law Elsie Bangert and Linda Watson all of Atlanta as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jane and Bill Watson and his brothers, Johnny Bill and Andy. Charley was proud to carry on the family name and continue traditions like "Watson Weekend" because family meant so much.
Born Charles Robert Watson on February 19, 1953, in Macon, Charley graduated from Atlanta High School in 1971. He later went to automotive school in Wichita, Kansas and returned home to farm. He lived his entire life east of Atlanta where he raised cattle, hogs and crops. He grew up riding his favorite horse, "Red Cloud" and later drove a big red service rig helping keep local farmers and other drivers in the fields and on the roads.
Charles met Carolyn on a blind date and together, they raised Charles and enjoyed cheering for the Atlanta Hornets, growing their farm and the service station. Charley was a longtime member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, where he was an active part of continuing traditions like the church's annual Lord's Acre Sale.
Charley was the kind of neighbor who would help anyone in need, whether it was to finish harvest or help them put their cattle back in. In 1995, Charley re-opened "Charley's Service" of Atlanta and continued his tradition of helping others at "the station." He was a kind and generous person who was always helping others in need.
Charley Bob was a prankster and some of his shenanigans were not for print. He lit up a room when he entered and was an important part of the Atlanta community.
A drive-by visitation will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 10:00 – 10:30 A.M., starting at the Atlanta School and driving through Charley's Service. The family will receive guests as they pull through the service station at 111 S Atterberry in Atlanta. A private burial service for the family will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the "Charley Watson Memorial" for a scholarship for students pursuing careers to work with their hands.