Roger Douglas Watson

Roger Douglas Watson, 79, of Maryville, TN unexpectedly passed away at his home on April 1st, 2012. He was born on May 3rd, 1932 in Gatlinburg, TN. The youngest son of the late Ollie and Hettie Watson. On July 3rd, 1954 he married his sweetheart, Delores Shields, and set up residence in Maryville. He loved living on his farm, and tending to his many animals. An avid outdoorsman, he led trail rides to Mt. LeConte in his youth, and hunted in Wyoming, Colorado, and Montana for many years. He served in the United States Navy, on a ship carrying ammunition for the Korean War. Afterwards, he joined the Air National Guard, and served until 1982, retiring as the fire chief at the 134th Refueling Group at McGhee Tyson. He is survived by his wife, Delores Watson, of 58 years. His daughter Sherry Nichols, and husband Bob. Grandchildren, Aaron, Grace, Daniel, and Bonni. Daughter Tara Cooper, and husband Randy. Grandchildren, Tristan, Mia, Maddie, and Douglas. Brother-in-law Don Shields. Sisters, Ruby Parham and Gladys Greene. Mr. Watson was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Douglas. Memorial service will be at 7:00 PM, Friday, April 6, 2012 at Smithview Pavilion, 601 Smithview Drive, Maryville, TN 37803 with Rev. Erin McCarter officiating. Family will receive friends from 6:00 until 7:00 PM, Friday, April 6, 2012 at Smithview Pavilion. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Roger Douglas Watson please visit our Sympathy Store.