Rev. Arthur Lee Watson

Rev. Arthur Lee “Red” Watson, 85, went to be with his heavenly father June 21, 2019.  Art was born September 10, 1933 in Galatia to the late O.L. and Mildred (Heflin) Watson. On August 8, 1953 he married Mary Frances Burklow who survives.  “Brother Art” pastored seven churches during his 35 years of preaching the gospel. He began his pastorate at Gaskin City and ended at Scott Street Baptist Church where he was a charter member. He loved his church family and enjoyed fellowship with all.  Art retired from Peabody Eagle #2 where he served as Maintenance Clerk. Prior to working at the mine, he was a district manager for the Evansville Courier and Press. Art loved sports, he was an avid Cardinals fan and also enjoyed golfing. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary Watson of Eldorado, a daughter: Beth (Jesse) Rister of Eldorado, two grandsons: Justin (Crystal) Rister of Murfreesboro, TN and Bryant (Shannon) Rister of Raleigh.  In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a son: Steven Watson who passed away March 26, 2012.  Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm Monday, June 24, 2019 at Colonial Terrace Funeral Home in Eldorado with Dr. Ricky Gray and Richard Malone officiating.  Visitation will be Monday noon to service time at 2:00 pm.  Burial will be in Ebenezer Cemetery between Galatia and Thompsonville. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Vicki Maloney Memorial Scholarship Fund or Hospice of Southern Illinois and both will be accepted at the funeral home. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family via the website www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com