Virgil Ellison Watson III

Virgil Ellison Watson III departed this life on Friday, September 29, 2023, the day after his 78th birthday. He was born on September 28, 1945, in Nassawadox, VA, to Columbia E. Scott Watson and Virgil E. Watson, Jr. 

Virgil was a Vietnam veteran and proud Native Eastern Shoreman. He loved studying Eastern Shore history and his family’s genealogy, which is probably why he enjoyed his role as owner and broker of Hawksnest Realty so much. It gave him the opportunity to see many of the Shore’s historic treasures and to share them with others. 

Those who knew him best probably remember seeing him astride his horse on a local trail ride, sharing produce from his garden, or talking about local real estate. There were very few adventures that Virgil passed up. Whether it was a massive undertaking of hauling Chincoteague ponies across the country to California or simply sleeping under the stars in the mountains, Virgil was ready for the experience. He was especially proud of his role as a father and grandfather to his children and grandchildren, who will miss him immeasurably. 

Left to cherish Virgil’s memory are his daughters, Beth Fox (husband, James) of Johns Island, SC, and Mary Rotkowski (husband, Tom) of Summerville, SC; and grandchildren, Anna, Benjamin, and Emmett Fox, and Avery Rotkowski; along with several family members and friends on the Eastern Shore. 

Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 2:00 p.m., at the chapel of Williams-Onancock Funeral Home, 94 Market Street, Onancock, VA 23417. The Rev. Robert Fletcher will officiate.

Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.

Virginia arrangements by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home and South Carolina arrangements by Simplicity Lowcountry Cremation & Burial Services in Ladson, SC.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Virgil Ellison Watson III, please visit our floral store.