George R. Watson

George Rutherford Watson, 74, of Pleasant Hill, Missouri, was born November 16, 1948, in Miami Beach, Florida, the son of Thomas R. and Jeanette M. (Phillips) Watson.  He departed this life Monday, October 16, 2023, at the Lee’s Summit Medical Center, Lee’s Summit, Missouri.

George was a 1968 North Miami Beach High School graduate. He later earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Ferrum College in Ferrum, Virginia.

He was United States Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran.

Following retirement from the Marine Corps he was employed as a teacher and football coach in Plantation, Florida.  He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #3118, Pleasant Hill, Jewel Lodge #480 Ancient Free & Accepted Masons, Pleasant Hill, and the Disabled America Veterans. He enjoyed working on his antique car and going to car shows, traveling, and going to the beach.

On December 15, 1989, he was united in marriage to Debra L. (Hahn) Gahner in Independence, Missouri.

George was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife Debbie of Pleasant Hill; two sons and daughters-in-law, Matthew and Elizabeth Gahner of Independence, Missouri, and Erik and Nicole Gahner of Nickerson, Nebraska; nine grandchildren, Alex Gahner, Issaac Gahner, Ashlynn Gahner, Andrew Gahner, Garrett Gahner, Austin Gahner, Carter Gahner, Alivia Gahner, and Kason Gahner; three siblings, Thomas (and Stephanie) Watson of Pembrook Pines, Florida, Bonnie Lesky and Jamie Watson, both of Sebring, Florida; other relatives and friends.

Per George’s wishes cremation has been accorded, no services are scheduled.

Inurnment with full military honors will be in the Arlington Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the V.F.W. Post #3118 and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may sent to the family at www.StanleyEdenburn.com

Arrangements: Stanley-Edenburn Funeral Home,