Michael Clifton Watson was born in Richmond County on Nov. 12, 1968 to James Terry and Margaret Ann Reynolds Watson. He was a graduate of UNC Charlotte with a bachelor's in history, was employed as an administrative assistant with R L Trucking and a veteran of the U.S. Navy.

Surviving are his daughter, Alyssa Michelle Watson of the home; parents, James and Margaret Watson of Rockingham; and brother, Terry Watson of Charlotte.