KENNETH MICHAEL WATSON
Kenneth Michael Watson was born on February 22, 1952 (69) to the late Deacon Cleveland David Watson and Elder Evoria Vernetta Watson in Hallwood, VA, on the Eastern Shore. He was the oldest of six children including his three wonderful brothers: David Watson (Laverne), Lorenzo Watson (pre-deceased), and Rozelle Watson (pre-deceased), and two lovely sisters: Alice Faulk and Faultine Rodgers (Gary).
Early Childhood
Elder Watson attended Oaks school in Atlantic, VA, T.C. Walker in Accomac, VA and later Mary N. Smith High School where he graduated. He gave his life to Christ at a very early age and quickly grew to love preaching the Gospel. At 19, he preached his trial sermon at Gospel Tabernacle in Cape Charles, VA where his grandfather, the late Bishop Jesse Hanshaw was the pastor and presiding bishop of Apostolic Faith Church of God Live On. Elder Watson grew up with a loving and close family spending many days working on the farm. He and the family oftentook family trips across the country to the excitement of he and his siblings. One of the family’s favorite trips each year was to New York near the Canadian border and to Niagara Falls.
Later in Life
Elder Watson briefly enlisted in the United States Air Force until he was honorably discharged. Shortly there after, he moved from the Eastern Shore to Newport News, VA where he enrolled in the apprenticeship program for welding at the Newport News Shipyard. Soon after moving to Newport News, VA, he met and married the love of his life, Linda Cutler Watson. Together they have five children: Keisha, Nicole, Kenneth (Robin), Mary and Phillip (Josetta) and ten grandchildren: Janee’, Keith, Kamari, Kavion, Kayla, Charlene, Malcolm, Josie Faye, Sophia Lily and Phillip Michael. His sons were his pride and joy spending countless hours supporting their basketball dreams and raising them to be strong men. His daughters were the apple of his eye – sometimes jokingly saying, “I have three daughters and none of them to give away.” He loved being a grandfather and spoiling his grandchildren whom he cherished deeply. He spent many hours traveling to rec center ball games, sporting events, band camp, Bush Gardens, McDonalds, Morrison’s Café, shopping malls and many other fun adventures creating lasting andlife-long memories.Elder Watson was a sports enthusiast. He loved everything about baseball, basketball, and football. He was great with memorizing sports statistics almost like an encyclopedia. Elder Watson was an avid reader with an extensive book list. He loved preaching and everything about the ministry and sharing the Gospel. He was especially fond of Joyce Meyers Ministries, the late Dr. Fred K. C. Price and many others.
Final Days
On Friday, December 3, 2021, Elder Watson went home to be with the Lord. His life of strength,endurance, hard work, ministry and service were a testament to the Godly life he lived. He was deeply devoted to his family and expressed his sincere love and adoration for his parents, brothers, sisters, children, wife and grandchildren until the day he passed. He never missed a moment to say how much he loved them. He influenced many through his kindness and friendships and leaves to enjoy the memory of him, a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, church family and close friends. Elder Watson, “Dad”, “Pops”, Kenny, Uncle Kenny…you will be greatly missed. Your legacy will live on in the family you’ve built, the lives you impacted, the service you’ve given to countless lives and the Gospel you preached. Forever in our hearts – until we meet again. .
