Lonnie Eugene Watson, 92-year-old resident of the Bardley and Doniphan, MO, area departed this life Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at NEA Baptist Hospital in Jonesboro, AR. He was born December 28, 1931, in Bardley, MO, to the late Joseph and Lettie (Rackley) Watson.

Lonnie was a “Jack of All Trades” working as a sawmiller, truck driver, mechanic, and minister. Lonnie liked to go scrapping and found compensation not only in the monetary value but also keeping things looking neat, tidy, and well-cared for. This was also true for his well-kept lawn which he enjoyed mowing and taking care of. Lonnie’s true calling, though, was his ministry. Preaching and serving as a minister and evangelist were his focus. He was especially passionate about attending camp meetings. Lonnie had also served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.

On August 2, 1952, Lonnie married Cecile McKnight in Grand Round, OR. She preceded him in death on November 4, 2023. He was also preceded by a son and daughter-in-law, Randy and Sheila Watson; a daughter, Sandra Watson; sisters, Helen Risley, Ethel Marsh, and Thelma Patterson; and his brothers, Homer, Mack, and Jack Watson.

Surviving are his children, Peggy (Robert) Yount of Doniphan and David (Barbara) Watson of Paragould and a sister, Leola Fehler of Illinois. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Benjamin, Stephen, Christina, Karen, Jeremiah, Tabetha, Matthew, and Adam as well as 27 great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild on the way.

Visitation will be held in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, June 1, 2024, beginning at 1:00 p.m. with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Bardley Cemetery.