Irby Watson died May 21, 2017 in Bryant, Arkansas. Born November 9, 1930 in Clinton, to Dovie and Irby Watson, Sr. He married Sylvia Fisher of Little Rock in 1955, where they lived and raised three children, before moving to Bryant in 1972. He was a successful business owner until he retired in 2000. An active member and Deacon of Geyer Springs Baptist Church from 1958 to 1998, moved to Benton in 1998 he became a member of First Baptist Church.
Irby was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and his cherished son-in-law Del Pagan. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Sylvia, daughter Denise Watson Pagan and granddaughter Hannah; daughter Deann Watson and grandson Payne; son Keith Watson and sister Opal Tester; and a number of friends, who like the family, will love and miss him always.
Irby served his country in the U.S. Army for 4 years stationed in Germany, and further served in the National Guard and Army Reserves.
Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., and a celebration of his life immediately after on Friday, May 26, in Self Hall at First Baptist Church, 211 S. Market St., in Benton. Burial following, with full Military Honors at Rosemont Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Student Ministry or Arkansas Baptist Children's Home.
Arrangements are entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home, a certified Veterans Funeral Care provider. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Visitation
MAY
26.
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (CDT)
First Baptist Church
211 South Market Street
Benton, AR, 72015
Funeral Service
MAY
26.
11:00 AM (CDT)
First Baptist Church
211 South Market Street
Benton, AR, 72015