Elton "Shorty" Leroy Watson, 81, of Pensacola, FL passed away Wednesday, February 27, 2013. Shorty was a native and lifelong resident of Pensacola born on July 25, 1931 to Florence (Stacey) and Lee A. Watson. He was Chief Building Official for Escambia County retiring in 1997. Shorty served as President and Executive Director to the State of Florida's FAPGMI. During his career he taught numerous plumbing classes at George Stone Vocational School and Pensacola Junior College, launching many careers in the plumbing field. He was protestant by faith. Shorty was also a member of East Hill Masonic Lodge #310 and the Order of the Eastern Star Chapter #310. He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Leon and James Watson. Survivors include his loving wife of 65 years, Geraldine Lowery Watson; daughters, Judy Snell (David) of Slocomb, AL and Cindy Bardol of Pensacola; 6 grandchildren, Mike Snell, Michelle Tucker, Jennifer Ballard, Dava Foster, Sara Beard and Lara Lookabaugh; 6 great-great grandchildren, Anna and Jake Tucker, Alex and Emma Snell, Jaycie and Will Ballard; as well as a brother, Andy Watson (Sissy). Visitation will be held 10:00am until the Funeral Service to begin at 11:00am on Saturday, March 2, 2013 at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel with James W. Boyd officiating. Burial will follow at Roberts Cemetery, Gull Point. Honorary Pallbearers will be Shorty's grandchildren. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Covenant Hospice, 5041 N. 12th Ave., Pensacola, FL 32504. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Don Angelo and his staff as well as Covenant Hospice for their professional and loving care shown to Mr. Watson and our family.