Phillip Lee Watson

MSgt. (Ret.) Phillip Lee Watson of Marietta, Georgia, was surrounded by his loving family when he departed this Earth for his last permanent change of station (PCS) assignment on November 6, 2026. Originally from Marion, Illinois, Mr. Watson graduated from Marion Township High School in 1953, whereupon he enlisted in the United States Air Force. Retiring in 1976, Mr. Watson served the United States in three wars: the German Occupation ending WWII, the Korean War, and the Viet Nam War. 

Born on December 8, 1933, Mr. Watson was preceded in death by his parents Marshall and Lucille Watson of Marion, Illinois. Surviving family members are his loving wife of 71 years, Donna Mae (Spiller) Watson of Marietta, Georgia; sister Nancy S. Betts (Gary), niece Lucinda Betts, and nephew Garrett Betts, all of Marion, Illinois.  

Mr. Watson is also survived by his sons MSgt. (Ret.) Jeffrey L. Watson (Desi) of San Antonio, Texas; TSgt. (Ret.) C. Scott Watson (Barbara) 0f Oneida, New York; Deputy Sheriff (Ret.) and SRO (Ret.) Gregory M. Watson (Kelly) of Marietta, Georgia. His legacy continues with six grandchildren: Benjamin Watson (Marina), Sarah Khan (Rashid), Colby Watson (Jessica), SSgt. Evan Smith (Jaruwan "G"), Jamie Fisher (David), and Kaycee Rae Watson. He was blessed to have ten great-grandchildren: Brandon & Bradley Watson; Osiris, Taavish, Atticus, Atreau Kahn; Marshall Watson; Logan and Emily Fisher; and Adriana Tokyo Dingjoho. 

Funeral services will be conducted by Dr. Richard Walker and Reverend Adam Mathews of Macland Baptist Church in Powder Springs, Georgia. A graveside service with full military honors will take place at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia, with honors rendered by the United States Air Force.  

In lieu of flower, the family requests donations to be sent to Macland Baptist Church Youth Ministry, Powder Springs, Georgia. The giving link is https://maclandbaptist.churchcenter.com/giving. Please select the "youth" category and reference Phil Watson when making a donation. 

Phil's memory will live on through the family he loved and the generations who will continue to carry his legacy forward.