Keith L. Watson, 76, of 21001 State Highway 86, Cambridge Springs, went to be with his heavenly Father on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Wesbury. Keith was born on January 21, 1949, in Meadville, the middle son of L. Wendell and Betty L. (Kiser) Watson. Growing up in Saegertown, he attended school there, graduating from Saegertown High School in 1967. After spending three semesters at Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC, he transferred to Alliance College in Cambridge Springs, graduating in 1971. While attending Alliance, Keith began working at the family business, the Gospel Book & Supply Store in Meadville. He so enjoyed his life’s calling at the store, engaging in conversations, recommending the right book, encouraging people to satisfy their quest for the God of the Scriptures by reading and studying the Bible, and being a listening ear to the hearts of many.
Keith was one of the founding board members of Meadville Christian Broadcasting bringing WCRF, Moody Radio, to Meadville through WVME 91. 9 FM. He especially enjoyed time spent reading and keeping his lawn mowed.
Surviving Keith is his wife of fifty-three years, Linda S. Watson. He is now reunited with his younger brother, Stuart W. Watson, his older brother Bruce M. Watson, his parents L. Wendell and Betty L. Watson, and his dear daughter, Laura A. Watson.
Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in Cambridge Upper Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Van Matre Funeral Home in Cambridge Springs. To send condolences, please visit www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.
Condolences(16)-
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Alice Vroman, vickie and Darla. says
June 30, 2025 at 5:01 amKeith and his entire family were a real inspiration to my husband and I when we came to the Meadville area as a young Pastor, wife and family. Keith and Linda were always such a blessing to you whenever you came to the store. I have missed them very much since they had to close the store. My prayers are with you Linda during this time. God Bless Alice Vroman and family.
Linda Butler says
June 30, 2025 at 6:34 amDear Linda,
Bob & I want to express our condolences to you on the loss of Keith. We always looked forward to coming into the store & we certainly enjoyed our conversations we had with you both. You are in my prayers at this time.
In Sympathy,
Bob & Linda Butler
David Staples says
June 30, 2025 at 7:24 amLinda,
I was so sorry to hear of Keith’s death. I loved spending time discussing life and things of God with him. My prayers are with you. If there is anything I can ever do for you please know I would consider it an honor. My number is 724-699-1575. Please don’t hesitate to call!
Jamie Schutz says
June 30, 2025 at 8:05 amWhile we are so saddened to hear of Keith’s passing, we are also celebrating his joy at being in Heaven! There is a special place for people like him. He was a constant, smiling, compassionate presence in so many lives including my own. He had a special gift. Lifting you up in prayer, Linda. 🩷
Mark Haeck says
June 30, 2025 at 9:02 amLinda, I am so sorry to hear of Keith’s passing. I treasure my memories of him and friendship he extended to me as he was my first friend I made after moving to Meadville 4 years ago. I miss our talks! I’m praying you will know the peace that passes understanding that only Jesus our Savior gives. Let me know if there is anything Sally and/or I can do for you.
Anna (Mercatoris) & Mandro Jayaseelan says
June 30, 2025 at 10:04 amSo sorry to hear of Keith’s passing. We have such incredible fond memories and connections to Keith and Linda through the gospel bookstore. We were blessed to have them as our best and longest tenants and friends. Lifting you up in thoughts and prayers, Linda.
Philip Andrews says
June 30, 2025 at 10:40 amVery thankful for the many fond memories of time spent discussing various stuff with Keith. His strong intellect, quick wit, and continual encouragement were just some of the wonderful gifting that he shared with any and all who entered the Book Store. Praying for your comfort, Linda.
Philip Andrews says
June 30, 2025 at 11:21 amKeith made the store the one place most Christians in Crawford County could unite.
Bobbye Bower says
June 30, 2025 at 11:35 amI am so saddened to learn of Keith’s passing but he passed into the loving arms of his Savior, whom he served so lovingly for so many years. John and I used to go into the bookstore on Friday evenings – we called it our Friday night hangout. I spent many lunch hours in the store, looking at books, discussing the Word. I was sorry when I came here on vacation a year ago that the bookstore was closed. We had so many long discussions with Keith and Linda. Linda, my thoughts and prayers are with you now and during the time you will continue to walk through this dark valley. May the Lord give you the comfort and peace only He can give.
Becky Mattocks says
June 30, 2025 at 12:24 pmSomehow Keith knew everyone and forgot nothing. It could be months between visits and he would remember kids names, always asked about extended family and made everyone he came in contact with feel seen and known. I am confident that when he entered heaven, God looked at him and said, “Well done my good and faithful servant…” Prayers for comfort, Linda. You and Keith touched so many lives with the Good News of Jesus.
Karol McGowan says
July 1, 2025 at 3:33 pmOur sincere sympathy. I attended Sunday school classes and Youth group with Keith in the late 60’s. What a blessing he has been over the years to the entire community.
Always willing to help find the right materials for teachers and students. Always remembering each individual, and I am sure he was a prayer warrior too. Our hearts are sad, yet we know he is rejoicing in the presence of JESUS.
Earl and Sue Thomas says
July 2, 2025 at 7:15 amWe will certainly keep Keith in our memory as a godly man. He will be receiving many crowns.
Jim Moyer says
July 4, 2025 at 7:38 amKeith was always so helpful to me when I needed more info when preparing messages or to just be able to talk about any particular subject. He knew the Bible better than anyone I know. Both Keith and Linda were always so kind and helpful. Sure do miss not having the Gospel Book Store and being able to stop in and see/talk with both of you. Heaven’s gain is surely our loss!!
Jim and Bunny Reighard says
July 6, 2025 at 6:24 pmLinda,
We send our heartfelt love and condolences.
Keith was a great man who spent his life servicing God and ministering to all who he met. SO privileged to have known him and your family.
Thankful to have the assurance that he is rejoicing in glory and we will ALL meet again.
Praying that God will surround you with His loving arms and give you strength and peace.
Jean Palmer Morris says
July 8, 2025 at 7:47 amKeith was always so welcoming when I came into the store. As a young child I loved going there with my dad who was a pastor ( Rev. Charles Palmer) and in more recent years he always remembered my name and asked how my mother was doing. He remembered her name to even though he hadn’t seen her in years. He was quick to help me find whatever I needed. He was caring and empathetic and there were many times I saw him pray with a customer. He will definitely be missed. I’m so glad we have Heaven to look forward to. This isn’t “goodbye”, it’s just “see you later!”
Wendy Gerber says
February 19, 2026 at 7:02 pmHello Linda, our family extends condolences to you. I pray for you be strong in your faith as the Lord God will provide comfort and hold you fast. (Please reference the song, He Will Hold Me Fast, by Keith and Kristyn Getty).
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