Ricky "Rick" Lee Watson

Ricky “Rick” Lee Watson, 71, of Salem, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital in Morgantown, leaving behind a lifetime of memories rooted in love, laughter, and the great outdoors.

Born on January 7, 1955, in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Rick was the son of the late Rollen Chaney Watson and Lenita Pearl Paugh Hodges. A proud graduate of Doddridge County High School, Class of 1974, he went on to build a dedicated career as a conductor with CSX, where he served faithfully for over 30 years before retiring.

Rick was a man who truly felt at home under open skies. Whether hunting in the quiet woods, casting a line into a favorite fishing spot, or riding horses across familiar land, he found joy and peace in nature. The outdoors wasn’t just a hobby—it was part of who he was. His love for life extended far beyond the hills and fields, though. Rick had a warm, jolly spirit that drew people in. He never met a stranger, and his laughter and kindness left lasting impressions on all who knew him.

Above all, Rick cherished his family. His greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren, who brought light and pride to his life. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend—a man whose presence made others feel welcome and whose absence will be deeply felt.

He is survived by his son, Jeremy Allen Watson and wife Barb of Salem; four beloved grandchildren, Teague, Hadley, Reese, and Wyatt Watson; brothers, Chaney Watson and wife Cindy of Clarksburg, and Chris Watson of North Carolina; stepmothers, Erma Ice of Clarksburg and Phyllis A. Hodges of Reedsville; along with numerous nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward.

In addition to his parents, Rick was reunited in passing with his beloved wife, Carla “Jan” (Moore) Watson, whom he married on October 9, 1976, and who preceded him in death on October 12, 2013; his daughters, Jennifer Marie Watson and Laurie Beth Watson; his sister, Pamela “Pam” C. Underwood and her husband Worthy Carson Underwood; and his stepfather, James Edward Hodges.

Family and friends will be received at Davis Funeral Home – Salem, 1999 W. Main Street, Salem, WV, on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., and again on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 morning from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel, with Pastor Chad Ash officiating. Rick will be laid to rest at Mount Olive Cemetery in Salem, surrounded by the land he loved so dearly.

Though he may be gone from this world, Rick’s spirit lives on—in the rustle of leaves, the quiet of a fishing morning, the laughter of his grandchildren, and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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