Thomas Raymond Watson

Thomas R. Watson, 81, born in Beacon, NY, passed away on June 11, 2021.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Watson and Helen Murphy Watson; step-father, Raymond Cahill and one brother, Robert Watson.

Mr. Watson is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joanne Bigelow Watson; daughter Deborah Claydon (Steven) of Geneva, FL; sons Matthew Watson of Arden and Keith Watson (Amy Long) of Asheville and grandchildren Lauren Claydon, Ian Claydon and Lila Watson.

Tom graduated from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY. He was employed by Nabisco for 27 years and was the Plant Manager of the Beacon, NY printing plant.

Tom and Joanne moved to Arden in 1986 and Tom started a real estate career. In 1992, he served as President of the Hendersonville Board of Realtors and was honored to be named the Realtor of the Year. He retired from real estate in 2008.

Tom served in the US Army for 3 years, including 11 months in S. Vietnam, where his unit was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation.

A Rosary will be said at 6:00 PM on Thursday, June 17 in the Chapel of Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian, with visitation to follow until 8:00 PM.

A Funeral Mass will take place at 10:30 AM on Friday, June 18 at St. Barnabas Catholic Church with Father Adrian Porras officiating and interment will follow in Calvary Churchyard.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to either Four Seasons Compassion For Life Hospice or to Manna Food Bank.