Paul Taylor "Watty" Watson

1952 - 2024

Paul "Watty" Taylor Watson

March 16, 1952 - November 20, 2024

Paul passed away on November 20th at VCU hospital from complications of Parkinson's disease after days of vigil by his family and numerous cherished friends. He is survived by his brother Tom, sister Sue, sister-in-law Karen, nieces Wendy and Amy, and their families.

Raised in the northern Virginia area, his family roots were in Kentucky. His parents Tom and Mary Watson took him back to visit often and Paul absorbed the country influence that would factor into his later work. Attending VCU after high school, he loved Richmond and made it his home for the largest part of his life.

He leaves a legacy as a vital part of the Richmond music scene from the 1970's to recent years. Paul, known affectionately as "Watty" to his friends, played cornet, guitar, banjo, mandolin and sang in numerous groups such as the 1980's Richmond band Orthotonics, Griefbirds, Ululating Mummies, House of Freaks, Patrick Phelan FSK, and many more.

In areas other than Richmond Paul played with the Blasco Ballroom in New York City and with Mark Linkous in the group Sparklehorse.

He also participated in an art/music community in Germany and toured Europe with some of his bands.

Music was Paul's heart and soul. He truly loved every opportunity to play, sing, and interact with his fellow musicians.

"Watty" was something of a "Renaissance Man" as he loved fine food, books and art. He was involved in the restaurant business, working with his friend Sosie Hublitz who owned amazing farm to table restaurants Millie's in Shockoe bottom, the Patina Grill, and the Kitchen Table in the Farmers' Market. He did various jobs at these, waiting tables, working in catering, and tending bar with a newly discriminating palate as a result. Another joy was working in Richmond's Fountain Bookstore and a beautiful old farmhouse in Ruther Glen, both owned by his dear friends "Boo" and Jim Smythe. He also worked at Chop Suey Books for his friend Ward Tefft. These jobs supplemented his life as a musician and also gave him joy.

Paul once said to a friend, "In my life I've been able to do everything I've ever wanted. That's as good as it gets, Isn't it?"

It is indeed. Rest in peace, Paul.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date.