Kenneth “Coach” Watson, 86, of Port Neches passed away Friday, April 7, 2017 at Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, Texas after a sudden massive stroke.

He was born on September 15, 1930 in Port Arthur, Texas to William Walter Watson and Mary Bartrella Wagner Watson.

He was a graduate of Port Neches-Groves High School and Hardin Simmons University.  He earned a bachelor degree and master of Education and earned a full ride scholarship as an athlete and was a letterman in football, baseball & track.   

He was an employee of Port Neches-Groves Independent School District and retired after 31 years of service.  His positions included teacher, coach, head coach, athletic director, elementary principal, junior high principal, and Assistant Superintendent.  He was a loyal Indian fan until his last breath.

He served as a member in the U.S. Naval Reserve. He was inducted into the Southeast Texas Coaches Association Hall of Honor in 2002.  He was named Port Neches Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year, a member of the Port Neches Rotary Club, he served as an officer of the Texas Coaches Association, and a loyal member, Deacon, and Sunday School Teacher at the First Baptist Church of Port Neches.   

Visitation for family and friends will begin at 1:30 p.m., Sunday April 9, 2017 at First Baptist Church in Port Neches followed by the funeral service at 3:00 p.m. under the direction of Levingston Funeral Home Port Neches.   Burial will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Sara “Tiny” Watson, sister Patsy Woodrom, his son Doug Watson and wife Theresa, his daughter Carol Anne Harley and husband Richard, grandchildren, Michelle Flores Gentile and husband Blake,  Ben Watson and wife Stefani, Shawn Flores and girlfriend Ale, and Devin Harley and wife Pinkee, and many nieces and nephews.