1986-2026
Aaron “Winkie” Malone Watson, age 40, of Pine Bluff, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026. He was a loyal friend, a dependable worker, and always put others before himself. Even during his illness, he was helping family, extended family, and friends with anything that they needed.
He was born January 23, 1986 in Pine Bluff to Jeffery Malone “Jeff” Watson and Joyce Aaron Watson. He graduated from Watson Chapel High School and attended UAPB on a baseball scholarship. He was also a member of Sulphur Springs United Methodist Church.
Aaron was an outstanding athlete, beginning in 1992 playing soccer, baseball, basketball, and running track. A talented pitcher and short-stop, he played during all grades of school, along with Jr. Babe Ruth, Sr. Babe Ruth, and American Legion baseball teams. He was an avid fisherman and loved the outdoors.
He worked for American Kraft Paper Industries for 19 years. He was lead back tender on the paper machine, was always there, and worked until illness forced his retirement.
Preceding Aaron in death are his grandparents, Shilla Jean Harper Wheat, Imogene and Clem Watson, and Mary and Sam Aaron; great-grandparents, Albert and Catherine Harper; great-grandfather, Robert Benjamin “Bennie” Watson; and an uncle, Harry Allen “Hat” Tidwell; and his faithful best bud for 15 years, Max.
Survivors include his parents, Joyce and Jeff Watson; a sister, Michaele Watson; along with many other loving family and friends.
Visitation will be Friday from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Robinson & Fuller White Hall Chapel.
All are invited to the graveside service on Saturday, March 28, 2026, 10:00 a.m. at Fitzhugh Cemetery. Please come to Jeff and Joyce’s house for lunch following the service. Aaron would have loved for everyone to be there.
