Goodlett "Bo" Hamilton Watson, Jr., 92, passed away in Bradenton, Florida, on November 17, 2023 after a brief illness. He was born February 5, 1932, in Bradenton, Florida, to Reverend Goodlett Hamill Watson, Sr. and Joan Matheson (MacRae) Watson.
He delivered the Bradenton Herald on his bike for 25 cents a week. He graduated from Manatee High School. Bo enrolled at Maryville College until the Korean War began and then he enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed at Rapid City AFB (now Ellsworth AFB) Strategic Air Command 28th Reconnaissance Wing. He served as a B-36 engine mechanic and was promoted to Staff Sergeant.
Bo moved to Miami, Florida, in 1955 and became a mechanic and inspector for Pan American World Airways. When Pan American closed that facility, Bo chose to move back to Manatee County and worked at the IFAS farm. He was skilled in repairing everything from tricycles to Boeing 707s and could explain how and why it worked.
Bo earned a private pilot license, took saxophone lessons, enjoyed fishing for snook in the Gulf and became a furniture maker. Many pieces of his crafting are in daily use at his home. He was also a fan of the Big Bands and Jazz and the Tampa Bay Rays.
Bo is predeceased by his parents and a brother, James MacRae Watson. He is survived by his wife, Doris Joan (Mallard) Watson of Palmetto, FL; son, Ralph Eugene (Jacinta) Watson of Seneca, SC; daughters, Laurie Loxley (Tom) Flynn of Fellsmere, FL, and Jeanelle Colleen (Bill) Stull of Rochester, WA; stepson, Wayne Carlton (Susan) Maahs of Naples, FL. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
He was a loving and devoted husband. He was a kind and caring father. He was a man of unwavering integrity. He was a peaceful, gentle man who will be missed by many.
No arrangements are planned at this time. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
