Ed was born in Columbia, SC on June 17, 1952, and entered into eternal life on February 2, 2020. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Geraldine (Reagan) Watson; one son, Paul Ryan; two sisters, Paulette Watson Latta (Phillip) of Lexington, SC and Brenda (Watson) Thompson of Atlanta, Georgia. Ed's life was also filled with the enjoyment of giving a hard time to his many nieces and nephews.

A graduate of Eau Claire High School, Ed attended The Baptist College of Charleston, later graduating from Greenville Technical College in 1973 as a Respiratory Therapist. He worked in his specialized field through the organizations of Richland Memorial Hospital, Glasscock Medical, Monitor Medical, and rounding out his career as the Vice President of Special Care Medical.

Ed received numerous accolades throughout his life. Most notably, the Presidential Accommodation Award, for saving the life of an accident victim in 1970.

A lifelong member of North Trenholm Baptist Church, he served as the Audio-Visual specialist and Production presenter of The Living Cross.

Amateur photography, antique cars and, visiting local children hospitals as the 'Grinch', were among the ways Ed enjoyed his life's journey. The message to all he met, was as humble as he was, "never judge a book by its cover."

A memorial service will be held at 3 o'clock, Wednesday, February 5th, at North Trenholm Baptist Church, 6515 North Trenholm Road, Columbia. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 2 o'clock in the Worship Center. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials to Epworth's Children Home, 2900 Millwood Avenue, Columbia, SC 29205, or a charity of your choice.