Evert Clay Watson

Evert Clay Watson, 92, of Rosewood passed away at his home on Monday, October 12, 2026 surrounded by his family. Evert was born October 8, 1934 in Bethelridge, Kentucky to the late William and Luella Watson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 37 years, Alice W. Watson, 2 brothers, Bennie Watson and Delbert Watson, 5 sisters, Barthela Francis, Deva Wilson, Delilah Lewallen, Joyce Wesley, Marlene Abbott.

Evert enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and traveling as often as possible. He loved fishing and boating at Lake Gaston and the James River. He was always available to help someone that needed assistance. He was very talented with his woodworking and enjoyed giving it away to see joy on the faces of the recipients. He loved to bowl and enjoyed watching it.

Evert was a proud American. He served in the United States Army as a helicopter crew chief. Assignments included Germany and Italy. In Italy, he was on one of the first 3 helicopters that went into the area of Vajont Dam when it burst in 1963. They brought hundreds of Italians to safety. The Italian Government presented the crew of the three helicopters with a Sikorsky helicopter pin. He will be buried with it.

He served 4 tours in Vietnam as a helicopter crew chief and also served on multiple assignments across the United States.

After 20 years, Evert retired from the Army as a Sergeant First Class (SFC) with multiple commendations.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Mary Elizabeth (Lib) Parrish Evans Watson; daughters, Deborah W. Byrd (Bobby) of Fremont, NC, Cindy E. Francis (Mark) of Clayton, NC, Pam E. Harrelson (Larry) of Lake Lure, NC, and Patty E. Cobb (Steve) of Lansing,; sons, Timothy Watson (Christine) of Clarksville, VA, Larry Watson (Lisa) of Goldsboro, NC, Donald Watson of Goldsboro, NC, and Wiley C. Evans, III (Sophy) of Goldsboro, NC; brother, Jimmie C. Watson (Pat) of Fairfield, OH; brother-in-law, Billy Parrish; sisters-in-law, Rachel Capps and Barbara Hill (Jim); 16 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; 3 great great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, especially Brenda Dick, of Loveland, OH.

A Home Going Service will be held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, October 15, 2026 at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery with Reverend Jasper Renfrow officiating.

The family will receive friends at the cemetery and at other times at the home.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.caseyfh.com.

Casey Funeral Home and Cremations is honored to serve the Watson Family.