Gale Roberson Watson

Gale Roberson Watson, 76, of Davidson, North Carolina passed away on October 13, 2025 due to Alzheimer’s disease.

Gale was born in Talladega, Alabama on July 10, 1949 to the late Edwin and Pauline Roberson. Along with her parents, Gale was preceded in death by her sister, Peggy Roberson Russell. She is survived by her daughter, Donna Watson Sobotkin; stepson, Christian Del’Aune (Emily); grandsons, Peter Sobotkin, and Henry, Charles, and George Del’Aune; sister, Kay Gilbert; brother, Ed Roberson; and much adored nieces and nephews.

Gale retired as National Director for Blind Rehabilitation Services at the US Department of Veterans Affairs in 2018 after a long and distinguished career of service to those with blindness and low vision through clinical care, education, research, and international consulting. Gale received numerous honors and awards throughout her career, the last in 2022 when she was awarded the Migel Medal, one of the highest honors given by the American Foundation for the Blind for her dedication and achievements in her field.

Gale could often be found curling up on the sofa in cozy socks with a dog and a pint of Ben and Jerry’s Cherry Garcia, chatting with a cherished friend or relative, reading a good book, or watching Alabama football (Roll Tide!). Gale loved dogs and gave a loving home to many lucky pups over the years. As accomplished as she was professionally, Gale’s greatest achievements were as a loving, hard working single mother to Donna, and beloved mother figure, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to countless others throughout her life. She will be remembered by everyone whose lives she touched for her loving nature, humor, intelligence, and strength.

A celebration of Gale’s life will be planned at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Gale's memory to the Alzheimer's Association.

Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home & Cremation Services is caring for the Watson family. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.KepnerFH.com