On Wednesday, August 19, 2026, God called William Todd “Pops” Watson home. He was 63, and passed while at Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital in Greensboro, North Carolina. William was born on January 31, 1963 in Clifton Forge, Virginia to Mary Frances Watson Thomas and the late Paul Hatcher. He professed Christ at an early age at Main Street Baptist Church in Clifton Forge. When he moved to Roanoke, he united with Sweet Union Baptist Church. He was no stranger to work. He was employed at D & J Family Restaurant as a chef, and was known for his chicken. He would later be employed by The Hotel Roanoke, bringing his culinary expertise to the Star City. William had a great love for family. He had a special bond with his grandmother and mother. He enjoyed spending time with his son and grandchildren, and enjoyed many hobbies. In addition to his father, William was predeceased by his grandparents, Mabel and Raymond Watson; his son, Tyrese Fortune; and two special cousins, “Moms” Reynolds and Kippy Watson. In addition to his mother, Mary “Boo” Thomas and step father, Charles Thomas, of Roanoke, William is survived by his sister, Monica Michelle Watson of Bridgeport, CT; his sons, Montell Watson (Emily) of Charlotte, NC and Tyrell Howard of New Haven, CT; his brothers, Derrick Hatcher and Paul Hatcher, both of Clifton Forge; a special aunt, Jeanette Reynolds; a special family friend, Barbara Reynolds; nine grandchildren; and a host of family and friends. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, August 30, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge with officiant, Dr. Demetrius A. Russell, Sr. and Reverend Willie Cannon, eulogist, as well as other assisting area ministers. Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery, Clifton Forge. The family will receive friends on Sunday afternoon from 1:00 PM until the time of service at Nicely Funeral Home. To send condolences to the family online, please visit www.nicelyfuneralhome.com