Riley Alan Watson

Riley Alan "Alan" Watson, age 69, of Sulphur, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on

January 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born in Ardmore,

Oklahoma on March 25, 1956, Alan lived a life defined by hard work, integrity and

devotion to those he loved. He married Mary Margaret Smith on 30 th of November

1996.

Alan graduated from Sulphur High School in 1974. He then attended Murray State

College and graduated with an associate degree in science. He finished his education

and graduated in 1979 from East Central University with a bachelor's degree of science.

Alan began his career in the oil industry in 1980 in Farmington, New Mexico, where his

dedication and strong work ethic quickly earned him respect of his colleagues. In 1985,

he returned home to Sulphur and purchased the local Texaco station, becoming a

familiar and trusted figure in the community.

In 1994, Alan began working for Jack Exploration, Inc., and moved to Freedom,

Oklahoma, where his leadership and business insight led him later to become part-

owner of the company. He also consulted with Redland Resources Inc., sharing his

extensive knowledge of the energy industry and his commitment to fair, honest work.

Throughout his career, Alan was admired for his professionalism, direct speaking and

fun-loving attitude he showed to everyone he encountered.

Outside of work, Alan loved the outdoors and the simple joy of country life. He enjoyed

elk hunting in Colorado, pheasant hunting in Kansas, deer hunting at his Keno Creek

Ranch in Oklahoma and fishing at the lake just behind the house. His happiest days

were spent at his ranch-tending to his cows, enjoying the peace of the land and

spending time with the pups.

Alan is survived by his loving wife, Mary Margaret and their fur babies, Bella, Finn and

Phoebe, his sister, Sherri, and brother-in-law Mike Miller. Nieces Cassie Todd and

husband Casey, Shelby Young and husband, Trae; niece Tori Watson; nephew Zac

Watson; two great nieces Tinsley Todd and Teal Young; and great nephew Tydus

Young.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Mary Dove Watson, brother Terry

Watson and daughter, Misty Watson.

A celebration of Alan's life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2025 at 1:00PM at the First Christian Church in Sulphur, Oklahoma.