Russell Thomas Watson Jr.

Russell Thomas Watson Jr., of Ocean Isle Beach, NC, passed away after a debilitating Heart Attack on Monday December 18, 2023 at the age of 89. Russell was born on May 18, 1934 to Russell Thomas and Henrietta Klem Watson in Mt. Holly, NJ.

He worked as a Union Carpenter for his early years and then later retired as Civilian Contractor from McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey. In high school, he played Football, Basketball, and Baseball and was Athlete of the Year at graduation. He was inducted into the Rancocas Valley Regional High School Sports Hall of Fame in 1983. Russell was a diehard sports enthusiast and loved the Philadelphia Phillies, Eagles and Flyers. He was also an avid bowler, hunter and golfer, but if it involves sports, he was always ready to play.

He loved to have children and family around at all times, along with many furry friends. He had fond memories of the “Fun Days” in Surf City, Long Beach Island at the Gsell's family home. He and his wife, retired to the LBI home in 2002 before moving to North Carolina in 2019 after his wife passed. He was a people person and was always happy and tried to have a smile on his face.

Loving stepfather of Harvey James Moore (Lynn) and Craig Barton (Marian) and grandfather to Jennifer Moore, Alec, Madeleine & Michael Barton. He is further survived by his nieces Nancy (Gsell) Calcara and nephew David Gsell.

A service will be held at a later date when his ashes will be interred in NJ at The Mount Holly Cemetery, Family Platt.

White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte Chapel