Daniel Thomas Watson

Daniel Thomas Watson, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, at the age of 67, at the Randolph Hospice House in Asheboro, North Carolina. Born on June 6, 1958, in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, Daniel was the cherished son of the late Thomas Earl and Elgie Eason Watson.

Daniel received his early education at Vaiden Whitley High School in Knightdale, NC, and pursued higher education at Campbell University in Buies Creek, NC, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with a focus on Health and Physical Education. His dedication to education and passion for sports led him to a fulfilling career as a teacher and coach.

In 1981, Daniel began his teaching career at Oxford Orphanage, where he coached soccer and basketball. He continued to inspire young minds and athletes at Granville County Schools, teaching at Mary Potter Middle School and Northern Granville Middle School from 1983 to 1992. During the 1992-1993 school year, he taught at Chatham Middle School. From 1993 until his retirement in 2002, Daniel shared his love for sports and education at Jordan Matthews High School, coaching softball, volleyball, JV football, girls' basketball, girls' tennis, track, and serving as an assistant coach for varsity boys' basketball, varsity football, and baseball. After 25 years of dedicated service, Daniel retired in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and encouragement.

Daniel's faith journey began at the age of 16 when he accepted Christ at Bethany Baptist Church in Knightdale. He later joined Peace's Chapel Baptist Church in Oxford, NC, where he found a spiritual home.

On January 1, 1981, Daniel married the love of his life, Susan Bradford, with whom he shared 45 wonderful years. Together, they raised a daughter, Heather Danielle Watson, who brought immense joy and pride into their lives.

Daniel was a man of diverse interests, enjoying woodworking, golf, and spending time with his brother watching collegiate ballgames over FaceTime. He also had a fondness for solving intricate 3D puzzles, a testament to his patience and attention to detail.

Preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Haywood Avery Watson, Daniel is survived by his devoted wife, Susan Bradford Watson, his daughter, Heather Danielle Watson, and his brother, Stephen E. Watson. He also leaves behind numerous loving nieces and nephews and his special protector, Sophie, his loyal emotional support dog.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00pm on February 8, 2025, at Bear Creek Baptist Church: 480 Bonlee Carbonton Rd, Bear Creek, NC 27207.

Daniel will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the positive impact he made on the lives of those around him. His memory will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all who knew him.