Richard Allen Watson

Obituary For Richard Allen Watson

Richard Allen Watson, affectionately known as “Dickey,” entered the gates of heaven on December 30, 2024. Born on May 14, 1955 in Hialeah, Florida he was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Dickey was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Doris Watson. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Becky Hollis Watson, sister, Donna Watson Harris (Virgil), his son, Joshua Hollis Watson (Cristen). He was also a proud Papa to his two granddaughters, Lily Kathryn Watson and Delaney Ruth Watson, who filled his heart with immeasurable joy and love. In addition to numerous family members and friends who he loved very much.

Dickey dedicated 25 years of his life to the Gwinnett County Fire Department, where he served with honor and passion. He spent several of those years as an instructor at the Gwinnett Fire Academy, sharing his expertise as a certified smoke diver and instructor in high-angle rescue, confined space rescue, and swift water rescue.

In his free time, Dickey enjoyed fishing, hunting, and supporting his son Josh and granddaughters in all their sporting endeavors. He was an avid runner and biker, completing numerous Peachtree Road Races, marathons, and half marathons, reflecting his love for fitness, adventure and the outdoors.

Above all, Dickey was a man of deep faith. He loved Jesus with all his heart and consistently put his family before himself, showing kindness and love to all those around him. His tender, generous spirit touched countless lives, and he had a unique ability to connect with others through his gift of music. Dickey frequently participated in singing at funerals and weddings and cherished his time in the church choir, where he could "talk to people and sing," two of his favorite things.

Dickey loved the beach, dancing, and enjoyed traveling, creating cherished memories with Becky and his family. As long as everyone else was happy, Dickey was happy. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith and kindness that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.

In celebration of his life, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 2:00pm at Graystone Church (1551 Ozora Road, Loganville, GA). In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to either the Gwinnett Fire Employees’ Benevolent Fund (by check to 408 Hurricane Shoals Road NE, Lawrenceville, GA 30046) or to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org), reflecting Dickey’s deep love for his fellow first responders.

Dickey will be greatly missed, but his spirit, love and legacy will live on through his family and friends

The staff of Central Cremation Services is honored to be selected to provide end-of-life services.

(If you order flowers, you must obtain a delivery address from a family member. Please do not send flowers to the crematory)

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