Gary L. Watson, of Lakeland, FL, formerly of Stockbridge and Pleasant Lake, MI, passed away on October 27, 2020 in Lakeland. He was born on September 26, 1943, in Stockbridge, the son of Logan and Jane (Stone) Watson.

Gary served as a prison guard for the State of Michigan for 25 years. He moved from Pleasant Lake to Lakeland in 1996. Golfing was his absolute favorite pastime. He was preceded in death by his 11 siblings: Anna Salyer, Hargis Watson, Harry Watson, Harold Watson, Peggy Crump, John Watson, Ralph Watson, Mary Updike, Pat “Pansy” Mendel, Opal Turner, and Calvin Watson; in addition, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Zola Maxine Wright, and his second wife, Dorothy “Dottie” Riddle Painter. He is survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

Per Gary's wishes, no services were held, and interment is at Oaklawn Cemetery, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.