Clayton “Clate” Edward Watson, 85, of Bradenton, Florida—formerly of Coudersport, Pennsylvania—passed away suddenly and unexpectedly of natural causes on October 19, 2025.

Born at home in Prouty, Pennsylvania, on August 11, 1940, Clate was the son of the late Evon and Marion Hamilton Watson. He grew up on the family farm in the Prouty-Borie area, where he learned the values of hard work and resilience that would define his life.

Clate was the devoted and kindhearted husband of Shirley Ann Ayers. They were married on January 1, 1959, and shared a beautiful life together for nearly seven decades. He was a loving patriarch who believed the only thing he could take to heaven was his children—leaving behind a legacy of love that will carry through to the next generations. After more than 50 years in Sweden Valley, Clate and Shirley retired to Bradenton, Florida, to be closer to family.

A resourceful and tenacious man, Clate was known for his tireless work ethic. He spent many years self-employed as a logger and log truck driver before joining PennDOT in Coudersport, where he served for nearly two decades. He was a particularly skilled heavy equipment operator and enjoyed repairing machinery. Beyond his work, Clate was always ready to lend a helping hand and took great pride in his family.

He was preceded in death by his son James J, a daughter, his grandson Clinton, his parents, and all his siblings: James Watson, Lawrence Watson, Virginia Harvey (Glenn “Bud”), Lena Ludwig (Albert), Paul Watson (Lena), Joseph Watson (Priscilla), and Helen Reed (Archie).

Clate is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; his children, Karen Grupp, Steven Watson, and Alecia Lidge; and his grandchildren: Drew Watson, Nicole Watson (Keith), Ryan Grupp (Cassidy), Amanda Grupp, Megan Wiltrout, Sarah Good (Leah), Carlie Wilkinson (Kent), Taylor Lidge, Ophelia Lidge, Gary Lidge Jr., and Michael Lidge. He also leaves behind 12 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at Sweden Valley Faith United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 25th at 11:00 AM, with lunch to follow for fellowship and remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to West Bradenton Baptist Church in Bradenton, Florida; Park United Methodist Church or Sweden Valley Faith United Methodist Church in Coudersport, Pennsylvania; or to a charity of your choice.