Raymond Lewis Watson, 86, of rural Montezuma, passed away at his home on the farm on Saturday, July 29, 2023, in the care of family and Unity Point Hospice. Private graveside services will be held at a later date.
Raymond was born June 3, 1937 to Lewis and Lucile (Bryan) Watson in Grinnell. Raymond graduated in 1955 from Searsboro High School. He was united in marriage to Mary Jo Hasley Sept. 2, 1955. Raymond and Mary Jo farmed around the Searsboro and Montezuma area for many years. They were blessed with four children: Ann, Karol, Brian, and Mark.
Raymond’s passion was farming. He enjoyed every aspect from working the land to caring for the livestock. He was concerned about conservation of the land. He and Mary Jo rode a Harley for many years, traveling to many places, including Washington, Florida, and Canada with friends. Raymond was kind and unselfish and was always ready and willing to help others. He will be remembered for his kind and gentle nature.
Raymond is survived by his four children and their spouses: Ann Marie Watson, Karol Kay Watson, Brian (Dawn) Watson, and Mark (Vonna) Watson; 13 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Mary Lu Watson, brother Bill (Diane) Watson, sisters Rilla (Ronnie) Baker, Martha (Don) Vos, and LuAnne (Mike) Dean; sisters-in-law Barb (Gene) Long and Carolyn Jontz; brother-in-law Wayne (Ruth) Hasley; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Raymond was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Mary Jo Watson; his parents; brother Robert Watson in infancy; brother Freddy Watson; brothers-in-law Ray and LeAnn Hasley and David Jontz; and sister-in-law Eleanor Hasley in infancy.
