Norbun Limuel Watson

Norbun L. Watson, age 92, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

Born on April 7, 1933, in Butler, Georgia, Norbun was the son of the late Herman Howard Watson and Kate Lumpkin Watson. He was raised in Thomaston, Georgia, in humble beginnings that shaped his strong work ethic. Growing up without electricity or running water, Norbun and his family relied on a nearby spring for drinking water and used a well to keep milk and butter cool. From an early age, he learned the value of hard work, helping his family farm and carrying water alongside his brother, Hugh.

Throughout his childhood, Norbun experienced many moves across rural Georgia, each place leaving a lasting impression. He fondly recalled his mother’s kindness and hospitality, never turning away anyone in need of a meal. He shared a special bond with his siblings: Hugh, Myron, and Wayne. Even as a young boy, Norbun demonstrated responsibility and resilience, overcoming challenges such as illness, including scarlet fever.

Norbun attended several schools during his youth, often walking miles each day. Despite the hardships, he remained dedicated to his education and was active in school activities, including basketball and theater. He graduated from Yatesville High School.

Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country, completing basic training at Fort Jackson before being stationed in Japan, where he managed mail operations for fellow servicemen.

In 1956, he married the love of his life, Sylvia, and together they built a home filled with love and family. They welcomed two children, Marilyn and Tim, and shared 40 plus years of marriage until Sylvia’s passing in 2002. Norbun also endured the heartbreaking loss of his son, Tim, at the age of 44.

After his military service, Norbun returned home and began work at Robins Air Force Base, where he built a long and dedicated career spanning 40 years.

Following his retirement, Norbun volunteered at the Museum of Aviation and the Food Pantry of Reach Church. He continued serving his community as a paraprofessional with the local Board of Education. Known for his determination, he overcame a serious accident later in life after falling from a ladder, demonstrating the same resilience that defined his early years.

Norbun had a deep appreciation for nature and beauty. Inspired by his time in Japan, he developed a passion for Koi fish, eventually building a large pond and founding the Middle Georgia Koi Society. He also cultivated a love for orchids, forming the Middle Georgia Orchid Society to share that passion with others.

A man of faith, Norbun was a devoted Christian who attended Southside Baptist Church and later worshiped with the Reach Church. His life was marked by kindness, perseverance, and a willingness to help others a legacy that will live on in all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Herman and Kate Watson, Norbun was preceded in death by his wife, Sylvia Ethridge Watson; son, Timothy Limuel Watson; as well as his siblings, Myron Watson, and Hugh Watson (Faye).

His memory will forever be treasured by his daughter, Marilynn Ethridge (George); grandchildren, Brandy Hogsett, Lauren Emmert (Tim), Heather Wade (Matt), James Limuel Ethridge, and Sierra Peak; great-grandchildren, Anthony Hogsett, Garrett Hogsett, Hayley Hogsett, Aceson Hogsett, Madison Hogsett, Trenton Emmert, and Talon Emmert; great-great-grandchildren, Arielle Hill, Karson Hogsett, Kayson Hosett, Zania Hill; siblings, Wayne Watson (Rosemund), Jan Prince, and Carolyn Ethridge; as well as several nieces, nephews, other beloved extended family members and friends.

Visitation will be on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home. A funeral service will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home. Afterward, Norbun L. Watson will be laid to rest in Glen Haven Memorial Gardens.

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.