Gary Archie Watson

Gary Archie Watson, 78, of Pensacola, Florida, passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior on August 13, 2025. Gary’s life was a story of faith, family, service, and love — a story that began in Gatesville, Texas, on May 15, 1947, when he was born to Archie and Juanita Watson. When Gary was just three years old, he moved to Pensacola. It was there, under the care of his grandmother and surrounded by a large and loving extended family, that he learned the values of hard work, faith, and community. Gary often spoke fondly of his childhood. In his early adult years, Gary answered the call to serve his country during the Vietnam War. While in the U.S. Army, he found his role in educating young GIs. His military service shaped him deeply, giving him a lifelong appreciation for both the sacrifices of service and the gift of freedom. After returning from Vietnam, Gary worked in Atlanta and then relocated to Pensacola. Gary built a successful career in real estate, where his leadership, integrity, and vision set him apart. In 1988, he served as President of the Pensacola Association of Realtors, guiding his colleagues with the same steadiness he was known for in all areas of life. In 1996, he earned his CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) designation, marking a high point in his professional achievements. But more than any title or recognition, Gary valued the relationships he formed and the trust he earned from clients, coworkers, and friends. Gary’s lunches were the best…be it the group at Karen’s on Mondays, Fishing Hole on Wednesdays, or his 30 year long Thursday lunches with Adrian, Duncan, and Wesley. Gary was a proud Rotarian…joining Five Flags club in 1992 and as a charter member of the Cordova club at its formation in 2002. He was a past-President of the club and at his passing had been Sergeant at Arms for many years. Gary’s fellow rotarians honored him with a Paul Harris Fellow award. He believed fervently in the organization’s commitment to service and community involvement. Faith was the foundation of Gary’s life. As a member of My Father’s Vineyard church in Pensacola, FL he was deeply committed to its mission and community. Whether serving in quiet ways behind the scenes, as an Elder, or encouraging others with a warm smile and a kind word, Gary’s love for the Lord shone through in all he did. And he was stalwart in attendance at the Wednesday and Friday men’s bible studies….multi-denominational and inspiring, Gary treasured his time there. God blessed him with his wife, Bessann Hebert Watson and for 23 years, they built a life filled with laughter and love for family. Together, they created a home that welcomed family and friends with open doors and open hearts. Gary was a loving father to Danna Cobb (Lonnie) and Amanda Hall (Brian) and a proud grandfather to Stephanie Watkins (Jason), Kimberly Morein (David), Jacob Hall, and Hayden Bivens, and a delighted great-grandfather to Tanner Watkins, McKenna Morein, Maddox Morein, and Owen Bivens and a wonderful uncle to nieces and nephew William Tusa, Katie Tusa, and Sophie Gischel. He also shared a special bond with Brianna Ramer, who held a cherished place in his heart and family. Those who knew Gary remember him for his gentle loyalty, his unwavering faith, and his ability to make everyone feel like family. He lived with gratitude, loved without reservation, and left an example of kindness and steadfastness that will continue to inspire those he leaves behind. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to My Father’s Vineyard Local Missions in Gary’s honor — a fitting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to serving others. Gary’s earthly journey may be complete, but his influence will ripple through those that knew him— in the faith he lived, the love he gave, and the legacy he leaves behind.

Tributes

Gary Archie Watson

May 15, 1947 - August 13, 2025