Michael Ray Watson

Michael Ray Watson, 73, of McGregor, passed away Sunday, January 30, 2022.

Services were held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, at Lake Shore Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by his son-in-law, Patrick Chaney. Burial followed with military honors at McGregor Cemetery.

Visitation was one hour prior to the funeral service.

Mike was born in McGregor to Horace G. and Dorothy Nix Watson. Mike was fun-loving, had an incredible sense of humor, and never forgot a joke. He often made others laugh with his quick wit and engaging life stories.

In June 1969, he met the love of his life, Jackie Byrd, on a blind date set up by his brother, Dewey. Mike and Jackie were married on September 18, 1971. The two enjoyed a long life together full of adventures, laughter, and love. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with their family in Fredericksburg.

His legacy includes a long career as a public servant. He bravely served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He served alongside his brother, Dewey, on the USS Preble, a Farragut-class guided missile destroyer. The last ship Mike served on was the USS Somers DDG-34. Mike received several medals of honor while serving his country. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Expeditionary Bronze Medal, and the Bronze Star Vietnam Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in the summer of 1969.

After serving in the military, Mike returned to his hometown of McGregor, working as a surveyor. In 1970, he began his career as a police officer for the communities of McGregor and Woodway, after which he worked for a brief time in logistics for Central Freight Lines and then returned to public service as a police officer for Baylor University. During his 25 years with the Baylor Police Department, he held various positions, including sergeant, lieutenant, and ultimately, police captain. Mike retired from Baylor University in 2005.

Mike had a great love for music and enjoyed playing his guitar with his son and grandsons while his daughters sang along. He was part of the praise and worship team at Emmanuel Christian Fellowship in McGregor for many years.

Mike also enjoyed fishing and camping adventures. Some of his fondest memories were the camping trips he took canoeing from Lake Whitney down the Brazos River to Lake Waco with his brothers, Dewey and John, and once with his son, Michael.

In his later days, Mike enjoyed spending time on his front porch with Jackie and their beloved rescue dog, Charlie. Spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren brought him the greatest joy and fulfillment. Mike knew and cherished the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. The entire family looks forward to the blessed reunion for all that believe in Christ Jesus and awaits us one day in Heaven. Hebrews 12:1

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Horace G. Watson and Dorothy Nix Watson; son-in-law, Dan McClaren; grandson, Caleb McClaren; parents-in-law, Jack and Wanda Byrd; sister-in-law, Donna Hall; and brother-in-law, Johnny Bradshaw.

Mike is survived by his wife, Jackie; daughter, Kristy McClaren; son, Michael Watson and wife Christy; daughter, Lindsay Chaney and husband Patrick; grandchildren, Tyler McClaren and wife Kaitlyn, Colby McClaren and Cassidy Adamick, Taylor Chaney, Elijah Chaney, Everett Watson, Emily Watson, Jack Watson, Samantha Taylor, Christopher Taylor, Johnathan Taylor, and Timothy Taylor; brother, Dewey Watson and wife, Glenda; brother, John Watson and wife, Sherri; sister, Donna Bradshaw; brother, Skipper Hale and wife, Tandra; sister-in-law, Sherri Collins and husband, Charles; and brother-in-law, John Hall; and many nephews and nieces, and a host of friends.

Pallbearers were Tyler McClaren, Colby McClaren, Everett Watson, Jack Watson, Elijah Chaney, Justin Collins and Cody Hall.

Mike had a big heart for suffering children. He and Jackie gave monthly to St. Jude. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Research Hospital.

Thoughts and memories may be shared at www.LakeShoreFH.com.