Leonard Watchey Obituary

Leonard "Len" Alcide Watchey was called to join the Lord in His heavenly embrace, on Thursday, August 21st, 2025, at the age of 89, while at his home in Chapin, SC. Born to Leonard and Mary Watchey on May 25th, 1936, in Smithmills, PA, Len's family relocated to Jamestown, NY, in 1952. It was here that he later met the love of his life, Patricia. In 1953, at the age of 17, Len enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He proudly served his country for 14 years, he was a Vietnam War Veteran, but also traveled extensively, embracing the adventures that came with multiple deployments. He completed his military service as a Navy Reservist, but remained an enthusiastic Marine through his final days. Len earned his Associate's Degree in Arts from Jamestown Community College in 1977, a milestone that furthered his successful career in telecommunications. His strong work ethic and expertise led to numerous opportunities, including a position in Southwest Florida in 1979. A natural leader and mentor, Len excelled in management until his retirement in 1998. In 2001, Len and Pat moved to Chapin, SC, having fulfilled their dream of building a home on the shores of Lake Murray. While his 24 years in Chapin were relatively brief, Len left a lasting impact on his close-knit community, becoming a beloved friend and honorary grandpa to many. He enjoyed a variety of hobbies including fishing, rock tumbling, jewelry making, and collecting; but he loved nothing more than the time spent with family and friends. He had a deep love for the Lord, his family, and the United States Marine Corps, though not always in that order. Len was preceded in death by his son, Keith Watchey. He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Patricia Watchey; daughters, Kim Alpaugh (Clifford), Karen Waters and Christina Chappell (Cody) granddaughter raised with love by Len and Pat; grandchildren, Mattie Alpaugh (Kenny Crook), Jennifer Gillespie (Daniel), Brian Waters, and Christopher Waters; great-grandchildren, Mikayla Hascup, Clayton Chappell, Porter Chappell, Izzy Gillespie, Wylie Gillespie, and Rose Waters; siblings, Hermance Bryant, Loretta Stoia, Eugene Watchey (Etta) and Mary Wilkins (David); as well as several cherished nieces and nephews. The family will hold memorial services at Woodridge Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 138 Corley Mill Rd., Lexington, SC 29072, on Friday, August 29th. A viewing will take place at 3pm, followed by a service at 4pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Amedisys Hospice, 2253 1900 Sunset Blvd., Suite 103, West Columbia, SC 29169 or Chapin Presbyterian Church, 600 Old Lexington Hwy, Chapin, SC 29036.