Watson Dale Kelly, age 90, of Pensacola, FL, passed away surrounded by his family on Sunday, June 11, 2023, in Pensacola.

Watson was born on January 30, 1933, to the late Sebron and Callie Brown Kelly, Sr. in Chipley, FL. In addition to his parents, Watson is preceded in death by his two wives, Nancy Jane Kelly and Shirlee Lea Kelly; several brothers and sisters; and his beloved dog, Bella Rose who was the apple of his eye.

Watson was a loving husband, father and grandfather who proudly served his country in the US Navy from 1951 – 1955 as a Radio Operator. He earned several medals and awards and served aboard the aircraft carrier CVA:47 USS Philippine Sea, and in the Korean Conflict RM2. Watson served his community for several years on the Pensacola Police Department from 1960-1974, as a dedicated Neighborhood Beat Cop to Detective to Narcotics to Traffic Cop and a K-9 Officer.

Watson moved to the Pensacola area with his family at a young age and grew up in East Hill. As a teenager he loved surfing and hanging out at Pensacola Beach. He graduated from the University of Florida and was an avid Gator Fan which was a source of great family rivalry due to most of his children being "Noles" fans. Watson held his private pilot's license and loved to fly with his family on vacations and on fun weekend trips. He was an avid golfer who loved the game, having Marshalled the Pensacola Open for many years. He loved to go camping and go fishing on the beach and at the local rivers with family and friends, having had many Fish Fry's over the years. He enjoyed going to visit Fort Pickens and exploring the Fort and beautiful beaches there. He was an excellent cook who loved to BBQ for everyone, he would often have pig roasts, although he was NEVER allowed to name any pig he was roasting as there would be a storm if he did. He had a love for and a huge tolerance for spicy food and hot peppers! He was known by all for being a Jokester and leaving a smile on everyone's face with his Shenanigans. He had a love and deep passion for his pets that were always a part of his life. Watson lived a big, beautiful, and joyful life, and always kept people smiling. His passing has left a hole in many lives, but his smile and character have left a lasting impression on the hearts of all who knew him.

Those left to cherish his memory include, his children, Terri Mielniczuk (Bill), of Pensacola, FL, Scott Kelly (Melita), of Pensacola, FL, Kim Stuthers (Chris), of Pensacola, FL, Angie Hattaway (Brad), Kyles Ford, TN and Sean Kelly (Cherrie), Lillian, AL; a brother, Wayne Kelly, TN; a sister, Betty Ely, AL; nine grandchildren, several great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild, as well as several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held 11:30am Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at Barrancas National Cemetery, Shelter B, NAS Pensacola, with Rev. Ken Griffin, officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the US NAVY. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at Harper Morris Memorial Chapel at 10:30am on Tuesday to go in procession to the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Covenant Hospice or Vitas Hospice in his name. The family would like to thank them for not only the care for their dad, but the whole family.