Jack K. Watson, Sr., 86, of Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, departed this life peacefully on the evening of Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the Orrstown Personal Care Home.
Born on Friday, October 21, 1938, in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Roy A. Watson, Sr., and Virginia C. (Mundorff) Watson.
Jack attended the Shippensburg High School and proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. After his service, he worked as a bartender for over 25 years at Durff-Kuhn VFW Post # 6168 before retiring.
Jack was a dedicated member of both the Durff-Kuhn VFW Post # 6168 and the Oscar M. Hykes American legion Post # 223, both in Shippensburg, PA., and lifetime member of the Shippensburg Fish and Game Club.
Jack cherished spending time with his loved ones. He was a lifelong fan of the Philadelphia Phillies and the Philadelphia Eagles, and enjoyed watching NASCAR. He found joy in outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting.
He is survived by his daughter, Melissa Hayes (Mike) of Shippensburg; his grandchildren, Courtney Rizzuto (Nick) of Marlboro, New York, and Logan Hayes (Mallory) of Mercersburg; and his great-granddaughters, Hayden and Brailey Hayes. He is also survived by his sisters, Jeanette Gordon of Newville, Nancy Heddy (Wade) of Mechanicsburg, and June Allison (Larry) of Newville, as well as many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Jack K. Watson, Jr., his brothers, Roy A. Watson, Jr., and H. Ray Watson; his sister, Regina Watson; and his longtime companion, Marietta “Mary” Hockersmith.
Jack’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Elaine, Carly, and the staff at Orrstown Personal Care Home for their compassionate care during his time there.
May Jack’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
A graveside service will be held Friday, January 3, 2025 at 1 p.m. in the Spring Hill Cemetery, with Pastor Bruce Levy officiating.
Military Honors will be conducted by the Oscar M. Hykes American Legion Post # 223 Minutemen.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Orrstown Personal Care Home, 3329 Orrstown Road, Orrstown, PA 17244.
Online condolences may be expressed at the funeral home’s website.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Jack Kenneth Watson, Sr., please visit the flower store.
