Billy Joe (Groundhog) Watt, age 85, of Smiths Grove, KY, passed away peacefully on May 3rd, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on December 28th, 1940, to Grace and Howard Watt. He was a native of Edmonson County, living in Oakland most of his life.
Billy grew up an accomplished basketball player at North Warren High School. He was a point guard and a proficient scorer, holding the record for most points in a game for the school.
Billy was an avid gardener, always spending his summers growing and sharing fresh vegetables with his family. He also loved to fish and was an active member of the Oakland Baptist Church.
Billy Watt is survived by his sons, Roger Watt (Ellen) of Bowling Green, Robert Watt (Carmen) of Bowling Green, Keith Rigdon of Bowling Green, daughters Teresa Keith (Joey) of Bowling Green, Beverly Lovelace (Kevin) of Bowling Green, Donna Coffman (Rick) of Indianapolis, and brothers Tommy Watt (Freda) of Smiths Grove, Steve Watt (Martha) of Smiths Grove, and Donna Morrow (Derek) of Somerset. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews whom he loved so much.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Ann Watt, Son, Richard Rigdon (Sandy), Mother, Grace Watt, Father, Howard Watt, and sister, Kathy Barrick.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Brenda Houchin. The love and support she has shown to the family mean so much during this time.
Funeral services will take place at Hardy and Son Funeral Home in Bowling Green. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 6th, from 3 pm-7 pm, and Thursday, May 7th, from 9 am-12 pm, with the service immediately following. Interment service will take place at Smiths Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Oakland Baptist Church and Foundation Christian Academy.
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