Anthony Lee Watson

Anthony Lee Watson, 62, died on June 18th, 2023 surrounded by beloved family. He was born on October 20, 1960 in New London, CT to the late Barbara Lue and Lee Otis Hunt.

Anthony loved God and his family as a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. His relationship with the Lord defined his worldview and guided his daily decisions.

Anthony studied at Southern Illinois University, Eastern Mennonite Seminary, and Columbia Bible College (now Columbia International University) in preparation for his role as Pastor at Christian churches across the east coast before retiring from the field. More recently, his role of inspecting personalized, 3D-printed orthopedic implants was a perfect fit for his talents (see Restor3d.com). He curated a library of thousands of works and led numerous philanthropic projects abroad, leaving a lasting and immeasurable impact for Christ. He loved taking care of people.

Anthony led a beautiful life. He was a master craftsman, enthusiastic vocalist, role model, and father figure to many. He held an incredible presence in more lives than he knew. He made a point of showing kindness to everyone he met, emphasizing that the Lord sees the heart, not the appearance. He truly loved people.

Anthony demonstrated infinite ways to say “I love you” with acts of service alone. He was an undeniably and deliberately devoted husband and father. Strangers would approach him and wife Polly often to ask how long they had been married — It was remarkably obvious how happy they were simply to be together.

He loved strong cups of coffee, big dogs, antique rarities, fine craftsmanship, learning, empowering others, gardening, roller coasters, language and writing, art, music, vinyl records, Bruce Lee, Johnny Cash, The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp, “The Princess Bride,” “Tombstone,” and more.

Anthony leaves a legacy of “mad” love, kindness, faithfulness, dad jokes, forgiveness, patience, generosity, more dad jokes, hopefulness, gentleness… and did I mention relentless dad jokes? He will be remembered vividly in the bouquet of freshly ground coffee, excellent food, bear hugs, vintage cars, majestic music, and the power of love.

Anthony is survived by his loving wife Polly and their loyal pup Henry; his children Jasper Tulley, Rachel Gail, Sarah Louree, Eliya Beth, and Jonathan Bobby; grandchildren Liam and Lucas; sister Susie (Lee); brothers-in-law Paul and John (Susan); nieces and nephews Dawn, Amanda, Ronald, Sarah Jane, & John II; and many many friends.

Anthony was preceded in death by his sister Belinda, and by his son, David Anthony Watson, who is flipping out right now with the joy of seeing his dad again.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 24th at 11:00 AM at Christ The King Community Church, 4405 Hope Valley Rd, Durham, NC 27707. Friends are invited to stay after the service for a reception and visitation with the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Anthony’s name to the building fund at Christ The King Church. Checks may be mailed to the church, and online donations may be given through this link Christ the King Donation. Please write “Building Fund” in the memo line.

The Watson family is under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Online condolences: www.hallwynne.com – select obituaries.