Family: ConAgra worker died saving a co-worker

Watson went back in to help the co-worker.

"He was almost out," said Richard Johnson, the family's pastor. "He went back to help her." 

When Watson went back in the building, the structure caved in on both of them, family members said.

Family members said Watson was an employee of ConAgra for 13 years and was an active member of his church. He is survived by his wife and their three teenage children.

"He was a dedicated father, a dedicated husband and a dedicated worker. He put everything he had into his job," said his wife, Terry Watson. "He just loved to help people."

Watson was among the nearly 300 workers in the plant at 4851 Jones Sausage Road when the explosion occurred. Many suffered from exposure to toxic fumes from ammonia leaks and some also suffered severe burns, authorities said.

Local clergy and community leaders will host a candlelight vigil for ConAgra victims at 8 p.m. Friday at Wake Baptist Grove, 302 E. Main St. in Garner. The public is invited to attend. People are encouraged to bring their own candles.