FRANKLIN—George Wade Watson Sr., 68, passed away on June 11, 2014.

A native of Franklin, he was a son of the late John Belin Watson Sr. and Ella Wade Watson, and was also predeceased by a sister, Joan W. Belote.

George was a former member of the Franklin Volunteer Fire Department and a wildlife rehabilitator for over 30 years.

He had retired as a heavy equipment machine operator, and was a member of Franklin Baptist Church.

Survivors include his daughter, Ann W. Bryant (Wyley); three sons, David Watson, Wade Watson Jr. (Melody Blount) and Jamie Watson; two brothers, Belin Watson Jr. and Frank Watson (Patsy); two grandchildren, Amanda Leigh Barden and Eliza Lynne Barden; and one great-grandchild, Christian Skyler Barden.

The graveside service will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, in Poplar Spring Cemetery. Casual dress is requested.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 13, in Wright Funeral Home, and suggests memorials be made to Franklin Fire and Rescue, P.O. Box 179, Franklin, VA 23851.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org