Harold Franklin Watson

Harold Franklin “Pete” Watson, 78, of Point Marion, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, December 17, 2024 in the presence of his loving family.
Pete was born July 29, 1946 a son of the late Harold and Evelyn Orr Watson of Point Marion. He was also predeceased by his younger brother, Michael Watson and nephew James Watson.
Pete is survived by his beloved spouse of 49 years, Diane McClain Watson of Point Marion; eldest son, Grant Watson and his wife Regina of Morgantown, W.Va., youngest son, Keith Watson and his girlfriend Shelba Belt of Point Marion; one grandson, Gabriel Watson – son of Grant and Regina – of Morgantown; nephew, Daniel Watson of Maidsville, W.Va., and nephew, Ryan McClain and his wife Paula of Morgantown.
A 1965 graduate of Albert Gallatin High School, and a proud 1969 graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy, Pete dedicated over two decades of his life in service to his country, retiring with the rank of Commander after a distinguished career in both active duty and reserves. A public high school teacher and coach of youth and high school sports for 26 years, Pete touched the lives of countless students and faculty at Mapletown High School in the Southeastern Greene School District.
Pete was a founding member of Point Marion’s “Friends of the Old Cemetery”, whose mission was to reclaim and restore the property and gravestones of the overgrown and forgotten cemetery on US Route 119 adjacent to Evergreen Memorial Park on the outskirts of Point Marion.
An avid golfer, gardener and musician – Pete was a proud member of the VFW Post 8543 (Uniontown) and American Legion Post 400 (Carmichaels) bands, and a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Pete’s legacy of service, compassion, and dedication to family and community will be cherished by all who knew him.
Friends will be received in the RICHARD R. HEROD FUNERAL HOME, Point Marion, Philip S. Rishel, Director, on Friday from 4 to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. hour of service. Interment follows in Evergreen Memorial Park, Point Marion, with Military Honors accorded at the graveside by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Point Marion Veterans Posts.
If you wish to honor Pete with a memorial, the family suggests the Friends of the Old Cemetery, P.O. Box 214, or the PMUMC Food Bank, 500 Morgantown St., both in Point Marion, PA 15474.
www.herod-rishel.com