Johnny Ray Watson, 80, of Statham Road in Casey County passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday January 20th, 2026. Johnny Ray was born April 14th, 1945, in Cincinnati, OH to the late Homer Watson and Matrie Parton.

He was united in marriage on September 27th, 1969, to his wife, Kathy (Murphy) Watson who survives. To this union, two children were born, Lisa Watson and Jeremy Watson.

Johnny Ray served his country in the U.S. Army from 1967-1969 obtaining the rank of Staff Sergeant Spec 5, spending a great deal of his enlistment in Germany.

Johnny Ray was a mason by trade spending many years working with Carmicle Masonry as a bricklayer. His work was impeccable, and he was known as one of the best. He took pride in his work and those who knew him would tell you it showed.

Johnny Ray was a man of few words. He was a hard worker, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was a generous man and was known for helping others in need. He dedicated himself to family and was a fierce protector to anyone who was being mistreated or down on their luck. He was a good friend to many people and even with his quiet nature, if you knew him, you immediately liked him.

When his health allowed him to, he loved mowing his yard, “tinkering” on anything with motor and 4 wheels, watching old westerns and spending time outdoors. He had a love and compassion for animals, especially his lap buddies, Bailey and Max. He loved his too-big-for lap buddies, Puppy and Brownie just as much.

His fortitude was to be commended as he never complained about anything-even when his pain was at its worst.

He will be sorely missed by his family who loved and respected him for his soft-spoken kindness and love.

Johnny Ray is survived by his wife, Kathy Watson, also surviving is his daughter, Lisa Watson and son Jeremy Watson, grandchildren surviving are Cierra Woodrum, Sophia Lynn, Preston Lynn, Ayden Watson, Aaliyah Scott and Kalisa Watson, great grandchildren, Kiyomi and Sakia, brothers, Larry Gene Watson and Stanley Watson and sisters, Diane Watson and Sandy Lowe.

Johnny Ray is preceded in death by his parents, one grandchild, Jordan Watson and one sister, Shirley Patton.

Cremation rites were honored by Bartle Funeral Home.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday January 23rd, 2026, at 7:00 P.M. at the Thomas Ridge Baptist Church with Bro. Herschel Lawhorn officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Bartle Funeral Home.