Bennett J (Jay) Watson

Bennett J Watson (Jay) passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on Sunday, August 10, 2025, while enjoying life with his beloved wife Pat and special friends. He was preceded in death by his father JB Watson and Dorothy Gilliland Watson. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Patricia (Pat) Hughes Watson, brother Robert Crane Watson, nephew Robert J Watson, Nancy W Riley, great niece Kamryn Watson, great nephew Zachary Watson, cousins Kim & Scott Kirk, and Brian Fleming. Jay was born into one of the original East Texas oil families on February 17, 1949, in Kilgore, Texas. Jay was a member of the Kilgore High School Class of 1967. He attended Kilgore College and was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Kilgore. Jay married the love of his life Pat on February 26, 1994. They were an inseparable and very close couple. Pat was Jay’s close friend, supportive wife, and shining light. Jay enjoyed music, playing cards, and spending time with good friends. To know Jay was to love him. He will always be remembered for his kindness, empathy, and love for his friends and family. Jay’s legacy was in the relationships he built and countless lives he touched with his generosity and sprit. Jay’s ability to connect with people extended beyond his immediate circle. He had the rare gift of making everyone feel like they mattered, turning strangers into friends with ease. He loved people and engaging in conversations with new acquaintances leaving a lasting impression on all he encountered. In remembering Jay, we are reminded of the values that make a community strong: love, dedication, and the bonds we form with one another. His story inspires us to cherish our relationships and to live a life that, when reflected upon, is full of meaningful connections and heartfelt moments. Jay’s memory will continue to live on, not only in Longview and Kilgore but in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing him. A graveside service will be held at Kilgore Cemetery on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. and a church service will follow at First Presbyterian Church of Kilgore at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First Presbyterian Church of Kilgore, PO Box 1216, Kilgore, Texas 75663. Additional information and a guestbook can be found at Rader Funeral Home www.raderfh.com.

Bennett J (Jay) Watson

February 17, 1949 - August 10, 2025