Robert Tillman "Bobby" Watson

Robert "Bobby"

Watson

Robert Tillman "Bobby" Watson, 72, passed away peacefully at home on St. Simons Island on Feb. 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends - just two days after celebrating his birthday.

Born Feb. 3, 1953, in Brunswick, Bobby was the son of Willie and Catherine Watson. A lifelong resident of Glynn County, he grew up in Brunswick before settling on St. Simons Island, where he built deep and lasting friendships. He graduated from Glynn Academy in 1971 and attended the University of Georgia. After college, he joined his father at Willie Watson Motors, eventually running the family business alongside his brother, Tommy, until 2023.

Bobby was a gifted musician and an accomplished bass guitarist, playing with several beloved local bands throughout his life, including Inner Soul, Saranac Lake, Sunny Beach Band, Bums in the Attic, The Groupers and OSKAR Rockhammer. His talent, passion for music, and vibrant stage presence left an indelible mark on the local music scene and in the hearts of his many fans.

Beyond music, Bobby had a passion for adventure. He was an avid Harley-Davidson enthusiast, traveling as far as Sturgis, South Dakota, for bike rallies with his closest friends. A dedicated cyclist, he cherished rides with his wife, Tina, and their friends. For 27 years, he never missed the Satilla River Club's Annual Flying Cow Weekend and traveled across the country to attend concerts. Whether jet skiing along the coastal waterways or hitting the open road on his Harley, Bobby embraced life with energy, humor and an infectious spirit.

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Catherine Watson; his aunt, Jean Nobles; and his first wife, Deborah Sirmans Watson.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Kristina "Tina" Malm Watson; his brothers, Billy Watson (Sally) of Sequin, Texas, and Tommy Watson (Joanne) of St. Simons Island; and his extended family, including brothers-in-law, Bobby Malm (Leslie) of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, and Rob Sirmans (Caryn) of Camden County; and sister-in-law, Lisa Sirmans Reynolds (Blaine) of Burnt Fort. He is also lovingly remembered by his stepchildren, Desiree Stoecker (Chris) of Lawrenceville, Kristin Lupien (John) of LaGrange and Jonathan Bryan (Angie) of St. Petersburg, Florida; as well as his step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and countless friends.

A celebration of Bobby's life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, at Christ Church on St. Simons Island, officiated by Father Tom Purdy and Bobby's brother-in-law, Father Bobby Malm. A reception will follow at Village Creek.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bobby's memory to Hospice of the Golden Isles, 1692 Glynco Parkway, Brunswick, GA 31525.

Brunswick Memorial Park Funeral Home is honored to assist the Watson family.

Family-placed obituary

The Brunswick News, February 11, 2025