Wayne Watson, 65, of Nowata, Oklahoma passed away July 8, 2026 in his home.

He was born on April 14, 1961 in Claremore, Oklahoma to Lois and Clifford Watson. Wayne grew up in Nowata and eventually placed his home and business there.

He spent his life doing what he truly loved; cowboying, ranching, training horses, showing, and rodeoing as well as shoeing horses. In his younger years he rode bulls and could ride any bronc. Legend has it, there was nothing that could buck him off.

Anyone who knew Wayne will tell you how great of a horseman he was. He trained many winners and took pride in every horse he trained; almost as much pride as he took in his children and family. Wayne wasn't a man of many words but you could always count on him to shoot you straight and lend a helping hand.

Wayne was the toughest man anyone knew and if you had the chance to hear his story, you would know just how tough he was along with his love for the Lord, who saw him through every trial. Wayne was the epitome of "cowboy" and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Wayne is preceded in death by his mother and father, brothers Ray, Robert, Jimmy, and Tommy; and sister Linda. He is survived by his wife, Teresa Watson; children Travis Watson and wife Kandra, Trent Watson and wife Shannon, and Tristan Watson-Tarpley and her husband Zach; grandchildren Trailee and Waylon Watson and Stetson Tarpley.

Graveside Services for Gerald will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 10:00AM at the Dewey Cemetery in  Dewey, OK, with Rick Reimer officiating. Online condolences can be left at www.honoringmemoriesnowata.com or the Benjamin Funeral Home Facebook page. Arrangements are under the direction of Benjamin Funeral Service, 114 West Cherokee, Nowata. 918-273-2700