Dale Jerome Watson Sr., 86, of Newark, passed away peacefully Friday, March 13, 2026 at his home surrounded by family. He was born May 9, 1939 in Newark to the late Frank and Jeanetta (Rankin) Watson.

He was a loving husband, devoted father, and a hardworking provider who took great pride in caring for his family. Even after a long day, Dale always found time to spend with his children. He loved his family deeply—especially his beloved wife—and held a steadfast love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A devout Christian, and long-standing member of Bible Baptist Church, he lived his life guided by his strong faith.
Dale retired from Rockwell International, beginning his career at the young age of 18 in skilled trades, cutter grind.

During his younger years, Dale enjoyed sports, being an avid coon hunter, baseball and basketball player. He quickly learned how to fix cars from helping in his dad's garage, using that skill to help others.

Dale spent many years raising quarter horses; a passion he began in efforts to spend more time with his family. Finding good mannered horses, he knew he could polish up, he found great success at their first show, The Ohio Quarter Horse Association Futurity. In Dale's words at the time, "Most people would think this is the thrill of a lifetime. But to myself, I look back and realize the whole thing began when my parents taught me there is more to life than personal desires. Showing kindness, respect and consideration for others is more rewarding than all the possessions you could accumulate in this life."

After retirement, Dale took up golfing and bowling, and became known as the "Hilltop Kegler," a name earned through his talent for custom fitting golf clubs and bowling balls. He had a remarkable knack for improving and refining things, always thinking of ways to make them work better and more efficiently.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Joyce "Mom"; children, John Watson, April (Eric) Sharp, Dale Watson Jr., Mark (Stephanie) Watson and Alan (Suzanne) Watson; eight grandchildren, ten great grandchildren; and sister, Bea (Ron Coleman) Watson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Terry (Carolyn) Watson.

Dale will be deeply missed by all those whose life he touched.  He never met a stranger, talking to everyone he came in contact with by sharing a gospel tract, a prayer or word of praise.  He loved to sing and often sang to his team of doctors and nurses at The James Cancer Hospital. After a surgery, his nurses raved of how Dad emerged from sedation singing 'Jesus Loves Me this I know...'.  What a testimony that was to all who were present.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Dale to Hospice of Central Ohio.

No formal service will be held at this time.  The family will host a celebration of life at a later date.

A poem written by Dad:
On a Hill
There is a hill called Calvary that's easy to look and see,
because it is where my Savior went to die for me so I can always live eternally
What love is given for a sinner such as I
This love causes a tear to enter this sinner's eye.
His love is wonderful, it draws me near
so I can know he is always here.
Eternally His,
Dale J. Watson

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Dad's team of caregivers at Central Ohio Hospice for the compassionate care, comfort and support provided.