Surrounded by his loving family, Raymond Ernest "Elementary" Watson joined his Wife Ann and son Tom in heaven on December 14, 2020. Ray was 80 years old at the time of his death.

Ray was born in Nashville, TN on January 13, 1940 to Raymond and Doris Watson.

Ray proudly served in the US Army Reserve from 1960 to 1966.

Ray worked for the Anaconda Company and when the mine closed, he opened his own business, Ray's Welding. The mine opened back up and Ray went back to work welding for MRI.   In 1987 Ray and Ann purchased the Red & White Dairy and later sold that business. After Ann's retirement Ray thought it was in his best interest to find something to do outside the house. It was then that Ray started his career first driving the residents from The Butte Convalescent Center and later at Big Sky Senior Living. Ray had a great sense of humor and you can bet he entertained the residents while getting them safely to their destination.

Ray grew up with siblings Carl & Beverly. Ray married Sharon Galetti and from that marriage they had a daughter, Julie Mitchum, they later divorced. Ray married the love of his life, Ann Malesich Burke on March 10,1973, with that union Ray took Ann's son Tom Burke and raised him as his own. Two years later Ray and Ann completed their family with the birth of their son Mike.

Ray was preceded in death by his loving wife Ann Watson. His parents, son Tom Burke and his childhood friend Biggs Jovick and countless friends, too many to name, you know who you are. He is survived by his son Mike, daughter Julie, daughter-in-law Becky Burke, Grandchildren, Alex & Bryce Watson, Abby & Jaycee Burke, Brandon Mitchum.   Ray & Ann helped raise their Nephews Larry & Ed Hart; they survive along with their families.   Ray leaves behind his life-long friend Jimmy Daily and wife Mitzi, a friendship that lasted over 70 years.   A special thanks to Ray's neighbors Don, Brandi & Paizlei McMurry.

Rays favorite past-times were riding his Harley, working in the Meat Shack, and camping in his motorhome. Ray loved to cook and enjoyed feeding friends and family.   He enjoyed dinners with the Birthday group. Papa Ray was the best Papa. He enjoyed taking the grandkids and neighbor Paizlei to school.   The Hanging 5 will never be the same without Ray's daily presence. He made great friends and his "Little Johnny" jokes were the entertainment of many.

Thank you to St James hospital for the excellent care Ray received. Cremation has taken place and due to COVID-19 restrictions, private family services will be held at Duggan Dolan Mortuary.   In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to a charity of your choice.  Due to Covid-19, the funeral will be Virtual.  If you would like to join the funeral via zoom, e-mail burkebj@charter.net to request a link to access the funeral.  Please do this no later than 8 am Monday the 21 ^st of December.

Express condolences at www.duggandolanmortuary.com