Lawrence Brandon Watson was born on June 28, 1941, in Pensacola, Florida, to the late Henry and Mabel Watson.
Lawrence attended Florida A&M University, where he had the honor of being a member of the renowned Marching 100. His time with the band was a proud chapter in his life and part of a musical tradition recognized far beyond the university.
Lawrence later answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army and becoming a paratrooper with the distinguished 82nd Airborne Division. In addition to his service as a paratrooper, he was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division Band, continuing his passion for music while proudly serving his country.
In 1970, Lawrence married Doris Sellers, beginning a marriage that would span 56 years. Together, they built a life and family filled with memories that would carry through generations.
Lawrence leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Doris Sellers Watson; his children, Stephanie Clarke, Craig Watson, Katherine Watson Jones (Brian), and Brandon Watson (Ashanti); and his grandchildren, Darby Jones, Reece Watson, Kent Jones, Anna Watson, and Dylan Watson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mabel Finkley Watson; his brother, Vince Smith; and his beloved grandchildren, Ashleigh Briana Clarke and Nicholas Jordan Clarke.
Lawrence’s life was marked by service, accomplishment, music, and devotion to his family. From marching with Florida A&M University’s legendary Marching 100 to serving his country as a paratrooper and musician with the 82nd Airborne Division, he carried with him a proud tradition of discipline, service, and music throughout his life.
Above all, Lawrence’s greatest legacy lives on through his family and the generations who follow him. His life, his stories, and the memories created with those he loved will remain a lasting part of the family he leaves behind.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and all whose lives he touched.
The Homegoing Services will be on Monday, September 21, 2026, 1:30pm, Smith's Memorial Chapel, 604 Salisbury Street, Wadesboro, North Carolina. Interment will follow at the Flat Rock 52 Memorial Cemetery, Wadesboro, North Carolina.
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On behalf of Myself and the staff of the Anson County Sheriff's Office, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all those affected by this loss. We stand with our community in offering comfort, strength, and support, and we hope you find peace in the memories you shared and the love that surrounds you.
My prayers and condolence to Doris and the his family. May God strengthen you and continue to comfort you in the days to come. Love you family
Doris,Brandon,Kathy and family our deepest condolences to the family. We the God for our moments with him at the family reunion this year. Praying God with strengthen you in this time of grief. We love you all. Shirley and Teal.
So many happy memories spent with you and family.
To Doris and the family I'm sending my condolences and prayers to you all. May God strengthen you all during this time of sorrow sending. 🙏🏽❤️🙏🏽
Condolences snd prayers are extended to the Watson family in your season of bereavement
I am so sorry to hear about Lawrence. You know you all are like another family to me..We all grew up together. Unfortunately I won't be able to attend the funeral but just know I am praying for you I am here for you whatever I can do. Just continue to walk with God as you're going through this journey! We Love You Always.. James and Geneva Rhames 💞💞🙏🏽🙏🏽
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.