Delbert Watson

MSG (Ret) Delbert Watson was born January 22, 1942 in East St. Louis, Illinois. He passed away Monday, April 30, 2012 in the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. He had attained the age of 70 years, 3 months and 8 days. Delbert grew up in Chicago and attended Robert S. Abbott Grade School and attended Dunbar High School. In 1963, Delbert entered the United States Army and served his country faithfully until his retirement. In his early military career, he spent time in Vietnam and in 1968 became a Drill Sergeant. He served in this capacity for 14 years and spent the remainder of his service time in other positions. By the end of his career, he had attained the rank of Master Sergeant. For his faithful service he earned several awards and commendations; some of which include: National Defense Service Medal, Army of occupation Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Mechanic Badge, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon – 3, Army Commendation Medal – 2, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal – 8, Vietnam Service Medal – 5, Air Medal – 16, Aircraft Crewman Badge, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry (Unit), Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon – 1, Marksman Qualification Badge M-16 Rifle and Meritorious Service Medal. On June 1, 1963 in Chicago, Illinois, Delbert married the love of his life, Susie Young. They shared over 48 years of marriage together and were blessed with two sons, Kevin and Darrell. In his spare time, Delbert enjoyed being outdoors. You could find him either fishing or working in his garden. He was a very particular person when it came to his vehicles and you could also find him washing them on a regular basis. Delbert was also very talented with his hands and he enjoyed working in his craft shop and was always coming up with new ideas for home improvements. He also enjoyed motorcycles. Delbert was a member of the Van and Truck Club and participated in many parades and other events with them. He was a very giving person and enjoyed helping with the Easter Egg hunts for the children and also made sure that the needy had food especially during the holidays. He will certainly be missed by all those that knew and loved him. Delbert leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Susie Watson of the home; two sons: Kevin Watson of St. Louis, MO and Darrell Watson (Nancy McDonald) of Kansas City, KS; one sister: Patricia Ann Ware of Chicago, IL; six grandchildren: Marcus Blankenship, Amber Blankenship, Natosha Watson, Keisha Watson, Marketa Harris and Kaitlyn Anderson; one niece: Brenda; one nephew: Johnny; other relatives and friends. Delbert was preceded in death by his mother Evelyn Hart and one brother, William Earl Harper. Funeral services were held at 12:00 Noon, Friday, May 4, 2012 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert with Delbert’s brother-in-law, Joe Young officiating. The songs “Jordan River” performed by Shirley Casear and “Jesus Promised Me a Home Over There” performed by Jennifer Hudson were played. Serving as escorts were the United States Army. Burial with military honors followed in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery – Fort Leonard Wood. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood.

Delbert Watson

January 22, 1942 - April 30, 2012