Richard D. Watson, 85, of Cheshire, beloved husband of 62 years to Ann M. Watson, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026. Richard was born on March 24, 1941, in New Haven, CT, the son of the late Clayton and Elizabeth Watson.

Richard enlisted in the United States Army in August 1963. He dedicated 6 years of his life to serving and was honorably discharged in August 1969. Richard then worked at the Shindell Sign Company for 20 years until opening his own business, Cheshire Sign Service and then Wood Creations – making small signs, carvings, etchings and laser engravings. He was very involved in his community and the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce. One of Richard’s passions was his Corvette. Richard was a jokester, who had a knack for making people smile and laugh while around him.

In addition to his wife, Ann, Richard leaves behind his daughter, Nancy Watson; sisters, Linda Watson and Sandy (Joseph) Papagoda; sisters-in-law, Diane Watson and Jeanne (George) Soeters; brother-in-law, Chuck (Sandy) Laurendeau; and several nieces and nephews and their families. He was predeceased by his brother, Raymond Watson.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Monday, October 26, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Alderson-Ford Funeral Home, 615 South Main St., Cheshire, CT. A Funeral Service will immediately follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. Bridget Cemetery, Higgins Rd., Cheshire, CT.