Richard “Dick” Russell Watson | Eastern NC Now

    Richard "Dick" Russell Watson, age 93, a resident of Chocowinity, NC, died Tuesday October 13, 2026, at his home.

    The memorial service will start at 2 pm on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Paul Funeral Home & Crematory.

    Mr. Watson was born in Detroit, Michigan on February 14, 1933, to the late Lionel Raymond Watson and Esther Helena Buyze. He was raised in Detroit and earned his Bachelor's degree from Wayne State University while attending night classes and supporting his young family. He was a veteran of the United States Navy and served on the USS New Jersey during the Korean War.

    On August 23, 1958, he married the love of his life the former Suzanne Carol LaNoue. Throughout their 68 years of marriage, he adored and cherished Suzanne and together they built a life filled with love, family, laughter, faith, and countless memories. Their love and devotion to each other was evident to everyone who knew them. He would often remind others to "take care of Suzanne."

    He was a wonderful father to his three children, teaching them the importance of empathy, respect, and kindness to all.

    After a long career in the automotive industry, Richard retired, and he and Suzanne settled in Chocowinity where they enjoyed 30 years of retirement. He was an avid reader, particularly enjoying books on biblical history and Christianity. He also loved researching his and Suzanne's family histories and traveling throughout Europe and the U.S. Richard had a way of seeing the good in life. He rarely complained or spoke of his own troubles. He genuinely enjoyed meeting people, striking up conversations, and learning about their lives.

    Survivors include his beloved wife Suzanne; his three children, Christopher Paul Watson (Dannielle Crawford) of Dryden, Michigan, Elizabeth Ann Pysz (Jim) of Oakland Township, Michigan, and Julie Lynn Watson (James Loughran) of Clearwater, Florida, and six grandchildren, Josh, Jennifer, Angelica, Mitchell, Veronica and Christopher.

    In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. https://www.nmcrs.org/get-involved/ways-donate or to the Dementia Alliance of North Carolina. https://dementianc.org/.

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Watson family.