Elton Eugene

Watson

Elton Eugene Watson Obituary

God granted Elton Eugene “Gene” Watson 85 wonderful years of life before calling him home. He peacefully passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, in Denton, Texas.

Gene was born in Angleton, Texas, to his parents, Ruth Rice and Charles Watson, on August 25, 1941. He grew up in Village Mills with his brothers, Roger and Bill, and sisters, Donna and Mary.

While our hearts are heavy, we celebrate the incredible life he lived. He was a very hardworking man who loved his family fiercely. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend, and proud veteran! He loved this country and served faithfully in the United States Marine Corps for 10 years. His military career was cut short due to wounds he received in combat, for which he was awarded the Purple Heart. He was proud of his military service but humble when it came to his accomplishments. After the military, he enjoyed motocross racing and working in diesel mechanics. He worked as a maintenance manager at Sea-Land and spent many years as owner/operator of Koala Express. He loved working outdoors, and working in the woods with equipment was his passion.

Gene never met a stranger, took the time to get to know people, and offered advice every chance he got. He had a heart of gold and would help anyone in need. His friends became family to him, and if he loved you, he made sure you knew it!

He was so proud of his children and grandchildren and always said they were his greatest blessings. He was always there for family and friends when he was needed and loved spending time with them all. The life lessons, wisdom, and advice he shared will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. His unconditional love and laughter will be missed.

Gene was preceded in death by his father, Charles L. Watson; his mother, Ruth Rice Henderson; his daughter, Karen Watson; his brother, Roger McCary; his sister, Donna Gandy; his cousin, Dorothy Beaty, whom he called sister; and his former wife, Sissy Watson Geisendorff.

Gene’s legacy lives on through his wife, Daisy Watson; his daughter, Terry Pitrucha, and her husband, Steven; his son, Billy Watson, and his wife, Shelbi; his daughter, Anna West, and her husband, Jason; his son, Creed Watson, and his wife, Natalie; his former wife, Dee Watson; his daughter of the heart, Tammy Nelson; and son of the heart, Glen Crawford.

Left to cherish his memories are 15 grandchildren: Kahlin Postoak and her husband, Zachary; Torri Howard; Mason Pitrucha and his wife, Chloe; Logan Pitrucha; Ashley Perry and her husband, Mike; Dustin Chandler; Andrew Phend; Reayn Hill; Casey Humphreys and her husband, Charlie; Jordyn Watson; Micah Stump; Cadence Hall; Skyler West and her fiancé, Preston; McKenzie West; and Jenna West. He leaves behind five great-grandchildren: Ashton Howard, Iylah Timmons, Piper Perry, Camilo Silos, and baby Humphreys, who is due in 2027. He is also survived by his brother, Bill Meissner, and his wife, Penny; his sister, Mary Simon, and her husband, Russell; and his sister-in-law, Claudia Cordova McCary, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

Services will be held on November 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Sterling-White Funeral Home in Highlands, Texas. They will be streamed live for those who cannot attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Shriners Children’s, or a charity of your choice.