William “Ryan” Watson

William “Ryan” Watson, age 27, of Gainesville, GA ran into Jesus’ arms surrounded by his parents, Kevin and Louise Watson, family and friends at NEGMC suddenly of a prolonged illness on Wednesday, October 17, 2018.

He was born November 10, 1990, and at 2 months old, was diagnosed with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. Not expected to live to 18, he fought and prevailed to live 9 more years. He is doing all the things he couldn’t do here on Earth. He is running, jumping, singing and dancing with his Nana, Grandaddy, Pop Pops and cousin Sierra. He was a lover of many things, especially Macaroni and Cheese, Christmas Lights, Walt Disney World and a cold glass of Sweet Tea!

He is survived by his big family; parents, Kevin and Louise Watson of Gainesville, GA; his Nonnie, Judith Watson of Murrayville, GA; uncles, Lew Miller and Michael Fields, of Decatur, GA; uncle and aunt Billy and Maria Miller and family of Jacksonville FL; uncle and aunt, Shawn and DeeAnn Miller of Winder, GA; and uncle and favorite aunt, Shelley and Ed Decker and family, of Lexington, KY; uncle and aunt, Drew and Cindy Watson and family Gastonia, NC; uncle and aunt, Eric and JoAnn Watson and family of Gainesville; aunt and uncle, Leslie and Richard Clark and family of Cleveland, GA; biological father and wife, Ron and Christy Stockel, and his sister, Taylor Stockel of Bethleham, Ga. Numerous friends and cousins also survive.

He was a such a joy to all who knew him! His smile could light up a room.  He had a kind heart and was aware of many things going on around him. Music was his favorite. It calmed him down and taught him to dance in his wheelchair. He loved the song, “Livin La Vida Loca” by Ricky Martin.  He would get the boogie fever when he heard that song. When he was little, he and his Mama would dance around the room while singing “Sea of Love” by Robert Plant. He will be truly missed! Life will be quiet without him.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, November 10, 2018 (his birthday) at Hillside Chapel Funeral Home in Gainesville, GA. 

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 10 AM until 11 AM, with service, birthday party, and balloon release starting at 11:00.

Please wear colorful clothing, especially red.

Pastor Eric Watson and Pastor Ray Tatum will speak in his honor, with a reading of the Beattuides by Billy Miller.  Music by Griffin Miller.

Online condolences may be made at www.hillsidechapelfuneralhome.com

Hillside Chapel Funeral Home & Cremation Services 1190 McEver Rd. Gainesville, GA is in charge of arrangements.