Bradford “Brad” E. Watson

Bradford “Brad” E. Watson, 58, of Morganton passed away Friday, March 1, 2019.  Born in Caldwell County, NC on April 1, 1960, he was the son of Gene Earley Watson of Hudson and Geneva Smith Barlowe of Hickory.  Brad attended Missionary Ridge Baptist Church and enjoyed reading the Bible.

Brad was a hard-working, frugal man who never missed work.  He enjoyed farming and running his tractor, Big Red.  He was a superb cook and was a jokester, outgoing, friendly, and he never met a stranger.  Brad called his mother every day.  His hobbies also included studying WWII history, shag dancing, working on vehicles, and antique shopping with his wife.

Brad owned and operated Classic Hardwoods for many years and could do beautiful floor designs.  He also operated his family’s business, Craft Stove, in Hickory.  Mr. Watson was currently employed by BVS Systems as a fire inspection specialist.

Brad cherished and dearly loved his family, but he really doted on his wife, Charlotte.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife, Charlotte Ann Ridgeway Watson of the home; daughter, Jamie Lee Watson Espinoza; grandchildren, Caleb “Alex” Stiles, Lillian Stiles Byerly (Mason), Kane Stiles, Trenton Parsons, and Megan Parsons; great-grandchildren, Gavin Byerly, Addyson Byerly, Jace Stiles, Noah Stiles, and Bella Stiles; sister-in-law, Susan Bollinger (Kevin); nieces and nephew, Peyton Bollinger, Dakota Bollinger, and Taylor Ridgeway; many other aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends; and his beloved animal companions, his dog, Cookie, and his cat, Gracie.

Brad was preceded in death by his grandparents, James A. Smith, Rosalee B. Smith, Clyde R. Watson, and Edith J. Watson; step-father, Cecil Barlowe; parents-in-law, Henry and Bobbie Ridgeway; and brother-in-law, James Ridgeway.

The family will receive friends from 12 to 1 p.m., Wednesday, March 6, 2019 at Sossoman Funeral Home.  The funeral will be held at 1 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with Rev. Chris Dale and Rev. Kennith Morris officiating.  Burial will follow at 3 p.m. in Blue Ridge Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to Missionary Ridge Baptist Church or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.