Robert L Watson

Robert L. Watson, Jr., 78, formerly of Oil City, passed away at 3:10 p.m. on Saturday, February 25th, at UPMC Northwest in Seneca.Born September 19, 1938 in Danville, Virginia, Robert was the son of the late Robert Lee and Magnolia Covington Watson, Sr. He was married to the former Nina Brown, who preceded him in death on February 10, 2010.Prior to his retirement, Robert was self-employed as a painter. He enjoyed painting, fishing, and listening to "oldies". He was well-known and loved, and many thought of him as "Uncle" throughout his life.He is survived by his three sons, Robert Lee Watson, III, Wesley Steven Watson, and Alonzo Johnson, all of Franklin; his four daughters, Patricia Watson of Harrisburg, Latisha and Nicole Stephens, both of Oil City, and Michele Cleckley of Franklin; his sister, Elizabeth Watson of Danville, Virginia; and his niece, Tammy Brown, of Oil City.Robert is also survived by his sixteen grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Shaquala; his brother, Johnny Watson; and his two sisters, Rev. Clara Williamson and Marion Waddell.Family and friends of Robert will be received at the Gardinier Funeral Home, Inc., 1315 Chestnut Street, Franklin on Friday, March 3rd from 10 a.m until 12 p.m. (Noon), with funeral services following visitation.Family and friends are invited to visit www.gardinierfuneralhome.com to send flowers, cards, online condolences or to help defray funeral expenses.