Beloved Retired Captain Died 

July 26, 2025 – Tulare County Sheriff’s Office officials announce it is with great sadness, Sheriff Mike Boudreaux announces the passing of retired Captain Mike Watson who died Thursday night at Kaweah Health Medical Center. He was 60.

Captain Watson began his law enforcement career at the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office in detentions. From there, he went to Porterville Patrol and Pixley Patrol. He rose through the ranks at the Pixley Substation, serving there as a deputy, sergeant, and lieutenant.

He served 32 years at the Sheriff’s Office. At his retirement in March of 2020, he said the best part of his job was the people.

“You guys mean the world to me,” Captain Watson said.

Captain Watson is survived by his wife, Paula, and children, Courtney, Caylie, Colton, and Samuel, and five grandchildren. Please join Sheriff Boudreaux and the men and women of the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office in sharing kind thoughts and prayers for his family and gratitude for his 32 years of service.

Source & photos: Tulare County Sheriff’s Office