Dan Staples Watson

Dan Staples Watson, 78, passed away Saturday, October 11, 2025 surrounded by family.

Dan was born February 3, 1947 in Lynchburg, VA to the late Myrtle Staples Watson and the late James Styles Watson, who were affectionately called "Myrt and Jack.”

Dan was a Christian of faith and was a lifelong member of Fort Hill United Methodist Church. When he spoke of God, he said “God and I are buds.”

Dan was a veteran of the United States Navy, and served in Vietnam. After he returned home, he spent most of his life continuing to serve his country in the civil service as an accountant for the Army Corps of Engineers and the United States Department of State. He also served as a member of the Isle of Palms City Council and was an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.

Dan graduated from the University of Maryland and was a die-hard Maryland Terrapins fan. Now he will never miss a game. Go Terps!

He was well known and loved for his sense of humor, generosity and the love he shared so freely with those around him. His light will continue to shine through the many lives he touched.

Dan was a devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was pre-deceased by his mother Myrt, his father Jack and his brother Julian “Jupe” Watson. Left to cherish his memory are his life partner, Debra “Debbie” Hatem, whom he affectionately called his “boo;” his daughter Amy (Barry) Waller; his sons Rob (Erick Galicia) Daniel and Jared (Katie Bray) Daniel; his grandchildren Cayton (Josh) Kellar, Cameron Broughton and Taylor (Chris Jenkins) Broughton; his great-grandchildren Liam, Tatum, R’Jayna, Remington, Mason, Parker, Charlotte, Aysa, Grady and a bonus granddaughter Lucy. He is also survived by his brother James “Jim” (Joan) Watson, sister-in-law Nell Watson, many nieces and nephews, and a special cousin, Ronnie Wood.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Janet Celino and her family for the outpouring of love and continued support over the years, but especially during this difficult time. Dan loved you all very much and so do we. We also would like to thank the members of the ICU team who took such good care of Dan. He spoke very kindly of you.

Per Dan’s wishes, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or Boys Town. J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel is assisting the family at this time. A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.