George Wilford Watson, age 84, of Buffalo, Missouri, formally of Mobile, Alabama, entered into rest on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at his home with his loving family by his side. George was born on May 8, 1942, in Semmes, Alabama, to the late Homer and Cornelia (Lott) Watson. George was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Rosie, a brother Johnny and a granddaughter Paige. George and Iris June were united in marriage on April 29, 2000. He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Iris June, a sister Gwyn, stepsons Russell (Kim), Brad (Shannon), grandkids Brook (Tyler), Brady (Alice), Nick, Ben, eight great-grandkids many nieces, nephews and other loved ones. An Alabama native, Watson enlisted in February 1961 and, after spending the next seven months in basic training and crypto school, he was assigned to Kadena AFB, Okinawa. While stationed in Japan he also successfully climbed Mt. Fuji. In September 1962, Watson was transferred to Fuchu Air Station, Japan, home of 5th Air Force. He was selected as Airman of the Quarter several times during his assignment to Fuchu Air Station. In 1964, he was reassigned to the Command Post at Headquarters Strategic Air Command, Offutt AF3. In February 1965, he transferred to the Individual Ready Reserves. In 1966, Watson attended Alabama Southern Community College where he earned an associate degree in business administration. He continued his academic endeavors at Southeastern Bible College in Lakeland, Fla., and Trov State University earning a Bachelor of Science in education in 1971, and a Master of Science in education in 1981. From 1971 to 1975 Watson served in the Alabama and Mississippi Air National Guards, the Alabama Army National Guard and the Naval Reserves, and then joined the Air Force Reserves at Keesler AFB, Mississippi in October 1975. In 1978, Watson attended the NCO Leadership School where he was a Distinguished Graduate and received the Commandant's Award for Distinguished Leadership. In September 1978, Watson received a direct commission and was assigned as the terminal services officer at the 41st Mobile Aerial Port Squadron, 403rd Reserve Wing at Keesler AFB, Mississippi. He worked in the Alabama public school system as an assistant principal and history teacher, retiring after a 20-year career at Montgomery High School. During this time, he continued to serve in the Airforce Reserves. His assignments included acting director of Transportation for 10"' Air Force, Bergstrum AFB, Texas, and as an air terminal operations officer at Pope AFB, N.C., during Desert Storm. Watson joined the DDRV workforce in August 1994 and served there until his transfer to a supply position in June 1999. Major Watson is a graduate of Squadron Officer School. His final assignment, due to the attacks on 9/11 was at Defense Center Richmond VA and postponed his retirement from service until May 2002. Personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal. and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Gold Hour Glass and Mobilization Devices. After his retirement from service, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and was an avid ‘Bama football fan, often heard yelling a loud “Roll Tide” to cheer them on. He was also active in the Buffalo Chapter of the Gideons until last year when his health no longer allowed. George and Iris attended the McIntosh First Baptist Church while living in McIntosh, Alabama and often when visiting family and friends. At the time of his passing, George was a member of the Bible Baptist Church of Buffalo. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Gideons. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Cantlon-Otterness & Viets Funeral Home, Buffalo, Missouri.
May 8, 1942 - August 25, 2026
Services are scheduled for Monday, August 31, 2026, with a time of visitation from 10-11 am and formal services at 11 am with Dr. Wayne Slusser and Dr. Robert Paul Baker officiating. Graveside services will be held at 10 am on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Mobile, Alabama with Pastor John Stone officiating.
