With profound sadness and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Larry Young Watson, who peacefully departed this life at his home in Unionville, Virginia, on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at the age of 73.
Larry was born on May 18, 1953, in Bartow, Florida, to the late Curties and Willie Mae Watson. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Willie Curties Watson and Otis Watson; his father-in-law, George Henry Dennis, Sr.; his mother-in-law, Mary Billups Dennis; and his brother-in-law, Sterling Odell Dennis.
Larry graduated cum laude from Thomas Nelson Community College, earning two Associate degrees: one in Architecture in August 1999 and another in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration in August 2000.
Before his retirement, Larry exemplified selfless service, unwavering dedication, and exceptional strength. He proudly served his country for more than forty years through both military and civilian careers. He retired from the U.S. Army as a First Sergeant in 1991 and continued his commitment to public service as an architect and facility manager with the federal government, with a second retirement in 2008. Throughout his distinguished military and civilian careers, he earned numerous honors and awards in recognition of his exemplary service.
Outside of his professional life, Larry found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid football fan who faithfully cheered for his beloved Baltimore Ravens. A true outdoorsman, he loved gardening, fishing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends on the land he cherished.
Larry was also a visionary. Long before retirement, he dreamed of creating a peaceful ranch where his family could enjoy God’s creation together. Through hard work, determination, and unwavering faith, he transformed 21 acres of wooded land into the fulfillment of that dream—a family home, cattle, flourishing fruit and nut trees, and a pond stocked with a variety of fish. It stood as a testament to his perseverance and to God’s faithfulness in bringing his vision to fruition.
Above all, Larry was a devoted Christian whose faith was the cornerstone of his life. He lived by his favorite Scripture, Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
His steadfast trust in God was reflected in the way he loved his family, served others, and honored every commitment he made. He faithfully served in numerous leadership roles, including Trustee and President of the Men’s Ministry at Mount Zion Baptist Church. After joining Mount Olive Baptist Church, he continued his ministry as Chairman of the Deacon Ministry. Larry also served his community as a Past Worshipful Master of Triangle Masonic Lodge #293.
Larry’s greatest joy was his family. He leaves to cherish his precious memory his beloved wife of more than fifty years, Linda Dennis Watson; his daughter, Crystal Estes (David); his son, Larry Watson II; his grandchildren, Daveon Estes, Gabrielle Estes, Jacob Watson, and Kerri Watson; his bonus grandson, Malakhai Lunford; his sisters, Eathel Mae Crump, Addie Mae Gatewood, and Gladys Swain; brothers-in law, George Dennis, Jr., Roland Dennis (Angelette), and Oscar Dennis (Barbara); sisters-in law, Marilyn Dennis and Inez Watson; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Though Larry’s earthly journey has ended, his legacy of faith, love, service, integrity, and purpose will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
“Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant.”
A service to celebrate Larry’s life will be held at noon on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Grafton Baptist Church Harris Grove, with a viewing beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment with full military honors will be at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.
