Terry Dale Watson, 73, a proud Veteran of the United States Army, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2024, at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola, FL. He was continually surrounded by his wife and children as he finished his well

ran race. He was the son of Bob and Helen Watson and was born on March 16, 1951, in Pontiac, MI, the oldest of three boys.

Terry is preceded in death by both of his parents, a younger brother, Ronald Watson and a grandson - Benjamin Watson.

Terry graduated from Milford High School in 1969. After graduation, he went to work at General Motors Truck & Bus in Pontiac, MI.

At 19 years old, he enlisted in the US Army where he served 5 1/2 years as a Lineman. His duty stations included Ft. Knox, KY, overseas in Germany

and Korea, finishing his Army service in Ft Bragg, NC. He was honorably discharged as an SGT E-5. After returning home from military service,

he resumed his career at General Motors where held many positions over the years. He was considered a dedicated, valuable employee and co-worker. He remained at General Motors until he retired in 1999.

Terry is survived by his Wife of 39 years, Laura J. Watson; Children, Michael (Heather) Watson, of PA, Chris (Sheri) Watson, of AR, and Tanya (Nathan) Roy, of SC; Grandchildren, Brandy, Michael, Jr., Samuel, Zachary, Helena (Gracie), Emily, Rachel, Dylan and Kayla; his great grandchildren, Graham, Summer, Dale, Rosalee and Ellawiese; also, his younger brother, Jeffrey (Nicole) Watson, of AR.

As his family, we feel he was an amazing role model for others to follow. He was steadfast and bold in his faith, even in his final hours sharing with his loved ones just how important it is that they come to a knowledge of the Lord's saving grace. He taught us how important it was to forgive others and grow forward, emphasizing to his loved ones to treasure each other and love like God loved us. Terry was selfless and clearly followed the example set by his earthly father. Leading by example, he demonstrated what it is to be honorable, accountable, giving, committed and loving. His love never wavered and was always forgiving.

We believe after his reception in Heaven, Jesus said "Terry, Welcome Home….well done thou good and faithful servant. Now why don't you take a

tour around with your grandson and the rest of your family." We can see his grandson Benjamin looking up at him, grabbing his hand and saying, "Hi Grandpa,

let me show you around this place…."

Our family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Baptist Hospital and Emerald Coast Hospice for the grace, patience and care that was given to our Dad and our family during this time. We truly felt he was cared for with dignity and compassion - we had full assurance he was in wonderful hands. This allowed us to fully focus on being present with each other and most importantly, with Terry during his final hours. We laughed and shared memories, prayed around and over him asking God to make this journey as peaceful as possible, which he did above and beyond what we could have asked for. We reassured Dad that we would be ok and always be there for each other just like he'd taught us. We did all this while knowing Terry was fully at peace with his own decision to proceed home, to simply honor his decision & plan to the best of our ability. Terry was transitioning home on his terms and the entire time we knew we were allowing him to do it "His way"

His immediate family will have a private celebration of life per his wishes. The family sincerely appreciates and covets all of your continued prayers as we navigate forward through the coming days and ask that you love one another just like Terry loved.

Hoorah!!