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Richard H. Watson, 85, of Grandy, NC, passed away peacefully at his home Monday, August 24, 2026. Formerly from Lenhartsville, PA, he was the beloved husband of Petra K. Drewes Watson, with whom he shared thirty-eight years of marriage.

Born January 10, 1941, in Allentown, PA, Richard was the son of the late Dorothy H. Harris Watson and Howard E. Watson. He was a 1959 graduate of William Allen High School. After high school Dick embarked on a long career in the steel industry. He eventually retired as a General Forman of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation after thirty years of service. Remaining active, Dick continued working with Bethlehem’s predecessor, Beth Forge from 1995 to 1997- retiring once again in 2009 from Lehigh Heavy Forge.

In his younger years, Dick was a pilot and instructor for the Civil Air Patrol 31st Wing; an avid scuba diver who helped start the Allentown Police Dept.'s River Rescue Division; and he held the position of Special Deputy Sheriff of Lehigh County. Dick also held a Law Enforcement Officer Training School certificate and was a member of Keystone Aqua-Ventures. Not to be forgotten was his passion and commitment to boating, motorcycles, and Jeeps on the beach.

Richard’s survivors include: wife, Petra K. Drewes Watson; sister, Sandra K. Czajkowski (William) of Maunaloa, HI; former wife, Janet A. Watson (Wargo) of Allentown, PA; three sons, Richard P. Watson (Kimberly) of Allentown, PA, Robert W. Watson of Allentown, PA, and Ronald M. Watson (Judy) of New Braunfels, TX; grandchildren, RJ, Rylan, Austin, Laikyn, Rory, and Jacob; and his great-granddaughter, Emery.

The family has honored Richard’s preference for cremation. They are planning a private memorial service to be held at a future date. Please share a message of comfort with the Watson family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.