Hoyt Watson

During the early morning of June 5, 2023, Hoyt Watson, 88, walked into the arms of Jesus and his wife, Jane.   Hoyt and Jane raised two children, Kathy Hayes (Greg) and Wes Watson (Kellay); grandchildren Jake Hayes (Rebecca), Bryce Watson (Jenna), Jacklen Collins (John), Whitney Dixon (Jake) and Alex Rice (Jessie); and great-grandchildren Will Hayes, Georgia Collins and Parker Dixon.  Hoyt was born in Baker Hill, Alabama. He later moved to Columbus, GA where he met his soon-to-be wife, Jane.  Hoyt and Jane moved to Lanett, AL where he worked for Liberty National Life Insurance for many years.  A promotion with the company moved the family to Watkinsville in 1974.   He continued in insurance sales and later owned Diversified Insurance Associates.  He dearly loved Oconee County and served on the Watkinsville City Council, Oconee County Planning Commission, Oconee County Board of Commissioners, Oconee County Board of Elections, and was a Bailiff for 12 years.  He is a member of Briarwood Baptist Church and previously Mars Hill Baptist Church where he enjoyed cooking Brotherhood breakfasts.    He was one of the original Coffee Club members that met at Eddie Mills’ drugstore and was also a member of the Civitans.  Hoyt is preceded in death by his wife, Jane, of 63 years and his parents Jessie Mae Watson and P.B. Watson.  He has a brother, Edward Watson (Libby) and several nieces and nephews.  Hoyt loved family above all.  He and Jane made sure their children were raised going to church. Taking care of their home was their hobby along with attending yard sales. Funeral services will be held Friday, June 9, 2023 at 2PM at Lord and Stephens West Chapel. Interment will follow at Oconee Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Thursday from 5pm until 7pm at the funeral home. If a donation is preferred over flowers, please consider donating to the Oconee Area Resource Council, 1800 Hog Mountain Road, Building 800, Suite 103B, Watkinsville GA 30677. Lord and Stephens Funeral  Home, West, Watkinsville, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com