David Merle Watson

David Merle Watson, age 62, went home to Jesus on July 13th, 2021, surrounded by his family. He
passed away peacefully knowing he’d be with his loved ones again soon.

David was born on August 10, 1958 in Ardmore, Oklahoma to Merle E. Watson and Dorrace Jo (Potts)
Watson. He graduated from Fox High School in 1976, followed by some continued education at the
University of Oklahoma and Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

David worked with Nubs Well Service for twelve years, before joining Uniroyal, now Michelin, where
he was employed for the last thirty years before his death. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a
member of the Healdton Masonic Lodge.

David was blessed with two beautiful and much loved children, Lacey and Billy, with Anita Watson.
David loved spending time with his son and daughter - coaching baseball, going on late-night coon
hunts, raising show pigs, and making great memories at the lake teaching them to ski and camp.
In 2002, David met his soulmate and best friend Lori Galbraith. They were married in 2004 and spent
their marriage raising Lori’s daughter Sarah and traveling the country on their motorcycles. They had
many adventures together and loved visiting new places - Sturgis in South Dakota, God’s Country,
being a favorite where they returned many times. David’s greatest pleasure in his life were his grandchildren, whom he loved with all his heart.

David Watson is survived by his wife of 17 years, Lori Watson, of Fox, Oklahoma. His children, Billy
Watson, Lacey Bivens and husband Andy Bivens of Fox, Oklahoma. His step-children, Sarah Galbraith
of Fox, Oklahoma, Jessica Zijlstra and husband Johannes Zijlstra of Ottawa, Canada, and Amy Yadon
and husband Todd Yadon of Orange, Texas. His grandchildren, Devon Bivens, Madelyn Bivens, Kinsley
Bivens, Arahsay Zijlstra, Marshall Zijlstra, Harper Solis-Galbraith, Hera Galbraith-Jobe and Cameron
Yadon. His sister Cheryl Cox and husband Dale Cox. His father-in-law, Cliff Gunsolus and wife Janet
Gunsolus and mother-in-law Donna Poulson. His best friends, Heath and Janet Conley, and too many
other family and friends to count.

David was preceded in death by his parents Merle and Dorrace Watson, Stepson Chris Galbraith,
granddaughter Avery Bivens, and brother-in-law Earl Sandlin.

A celebration of David’s life will be held at Milo Baptist Church on Saturday, the 24th of July at 3:30
p.m.