Gifford Richard “Buddy” Watson went to be with the Lord on April 30, 2026. He was born on April 3, 1935 in England, Arkansas to Cleo and Reba Watson.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Carolyn Watson; daughter, Debra (Ronnie) Robinson; stepdaughter, Cindi (Bill) Stephenson; granddaughter, Hannah (Desmond) Duckworth; great-granddaughter, Baylor Reign Duckworth; brother Harvey “Sonny” (Donna) Watson; along with a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cleo and Reba Watson; 2 sisters and a brother-in-law, Reba Arkels; Dollie and Bob Barth.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026 at 2:30pm with graveside service at 3:00pm at Hamilton Cemetery in Carlisle, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, donate to the Cancer Society and/or Dementia Society Foundation.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com