Dr. Brent Phillip Watson

In Loving Memory of Dr. Brent Phillip Watson (1985–2025) “Well done, good and faithful servant…enter into the joy of your master.” – Matthew 25:23

On May 19, 2025, Dr. Brent Phillip Watson, 40, of Hazel Green, Alabama, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Though his earthly life was brief, his impact was eternal. Brent lived a life marked by selfless service, quiet strength, and unwavering faith in the One who came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45).

He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Kelly, whom he cherished and faithfully loved from the moment they met at the age of 19. Their marriage was a testimony to Ephesians 5:25, as Brent daily laid down his life in love and service to her. He selflessly cared for her in all ways of her physical and spiritual health. He was the proud and devoted father of four precious children: Taylor, Lauren, Madelyn, and Jillian. As a father, Brent lived out Deuteronomy 6:6–7, teaching his children to love the Lord and walking with them in grace, truth, and joy. He faithfully led each one of his children to the foot of the cross in the prayer of salvation as they joined the family of God in their young lives.

Brent was born on March 31, 1985, in Lynchburg, Virginia, to Phillip and Phyllis Watson, who lovingly raised him to walk in the truth of God's Word. Their loving example laid the foundation for Brent’s deep relationship with Christ and his lifelong commitment to serve others. He shared a close bond with his sister, Allison, and her husband, Cody Martin, and with his brother, Lance, and his wife, Laryssa—relationships grounded in faith, love, and family. Brent was also a proud and devoted uncle to his beloved nephews, Eli, Cason, and Carter, and his nieces, Emma, Ila, and Elliana, who brought him great joy. He also carried in his heart the memory of his brother-in-law, Johnny Henderson, who preceded him in death. He is also survived by his loving and selfless grandmother, Ann Watson and his large family of in-laws who adored and appreciated his faithful leadership of Kelly and their children. Survivors also include his mother-in-law, Denise (Randy) Reynolds; father-in-law, Phillip (Sharon) Blankenship; brother-in-law, Andrew (Shannon) Blankenship and their three precious children; sister-in-law, Maggie Reynolds; and Kelly’s beloved grandmother whom Brent deeply cherished, Peggy Talley. He also will be greatly missed by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins

Brent answered the call to serve others through the profession of nursing, where he compassionately cared for pediatric patients with excellence and humility. Later, he transitioned to shaping future generations as an instructor of nursing at Calhoun Community College, continuing his legacy of service through teaching and mentorship.

As a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Meridianville, Brent served as a deacon, Bible study leader, and a faithful encourager and example to all. He was always ready with a word of wisdom, a helping hand, or a prayerful heart. He lived out 1 Peter 4:10: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.”

Brent also gave generously of his time and energy to his community. He volunteered with Shine the Light Ministry, bringing hope to those in need, and invested in the lives of young people through coaching baseball and softball. Whether in the classroom, the church, the clinic, or the dugout, Brent lived to serve others and glorify his Savior.

Though his passing is a heartbreaking loss to all who loved him, we do not grieve as those without hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). We rejoice in the promise that Brent is now in the presence of his Redeemer, hearing the words he lived his life to one day hear: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Brent’s hands may have stopped working here, but his service echoes into eternity. His life reminds us that “whoever would be great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26), and Brent exemplified a great life as a Christ follower. He lived not for recognition, but for the glory of God, and in doing so, he left behind a legacy of love, faith, and service that will continue to bear fruit in the lives of those he touched.The family will receive friends on Friday evening from 4pm until 8pm at the First Baptist Church of Meridianville. Funeral services will be Saturday at 1pm at the church with Pastor David Hutto and Dr. Bob Wilson officiating. Burial will follow the service and will be in Valley View Memorial Gardens. 

If you wish to make a contribution to bless the Watson family, there are two opportunities for giving.

OPPORTUNITY 1: Watson Family 529 College Savings Account Contribution Information

Option 1: Check

Make checks payable to CollegCounts and mail to:

CollegeCounts
PO BOX 85290
Lincoln, NE 68501

Toll Free: (866) 529-2228
*Be sure to include the following in the check memo line: Account # 552958316; Taylor P Watson (Beneficiary)

Option 2: Electronic Payment

Email Andrew Blankenship (Kelly Watson’s brother) @ pablankenship@gmail.com and request an electronic link to CollegeCounts for online payment options. In the email, be sure and include your:

1.                       1. Full Name
                         2. Email Address
                         3. Phone Number
   
   

OPPORTUNITY 2: WATSON FAMILY GENERAL FUND

You may make a donation to the newly established Watson Family general fund in support of Kelly and the children, please feel free to contact the folks at the local branch of Bank of Frankewing for more details.

Bank of Frankewing – Hazel Green
14226 US-231 North
Hazel Green, AL 35750
256-507-9180
www.bankoffrankewing.com

Hazel Green Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.