Sherman Claude Watson, age, 83 of Mouth of Wilson, VA the Grassy Creek Community passed away on Wednesday evening, Nov. 1, 2023, at the Ashe Memorial Hospital in Jefferson, NC.  He was born in Grayson County on July 25, 1940, to William Cecil and Bina Mae Suitt Watson.  Claude will be remembered for his extraordinary talent in music performance, song writing, and recording abilities.  Throughout his life he has performed at countless churches bringing the gospel message in song.  He recorded many albums including both his original compositions as well as many favorite gospel hymns.  He and his wife owned and operated Gospel Highland Recordings Studios where many local artists were able to produce albums.  Claude was also a farm manager for many years where his strong work ethic was displayed in every aspect of the farm operations.  In later years, he became the director of maintenance at Oak Hill Academy where he supervised the physical operations of the Academy.  Whether Claude was on the farm, on the academy campus, in the recording studio, or on stage, he faithfully gave his all and was always clad in dignity, honesty, and integrity.  The family is greatly comforted in knowing that this honored soldier of the cross has made it home and has entered into the joys of paradise. His many songs of faith that brought encouragement to countless people, have now become his reality.

Claude is survived by his wife, Mary Lou Watson of the home; he was both mother and father to his two daughters, Barbara Chambers of Zebulon, NC and Robin and Terry Greene of Galax, VA; sons, Gregg and Tracy Haga of Max Meadows, VA and Craig Haga of Madison, MS; daughters, Barbara Ann and David Sharitz of Wytheville, VA and Tammy and Walter Lowe of Sugar Grove, VA; sister, Eva Smythers of Galax, VA; 15 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Morris Watson and his sister, Ruth Darnell.

Funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday afternoon, November 7, 2023, at 2:00 at the Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jeff Blevins, Rev. Cody Blair, and Bro John Hall officiating.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the Piney Creek Cemetery in Alleghany County.  Flowers are appreciated or memorial contributions may be made to the Piney Creek Cemetery Fund c/o Sara McMillan 1297 Garvey Road Piney Creek NC 28663. Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, VA is serving the Watson family.

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