John Watson

John Earl Watson was born in 1935 in Champaign, IL to Willie Watson and Addeline Carter. He moved from Champaign, IL to Rock Island, IL and finally settled in Minneapolis, MN in 1968. He later married Beatrice Smith on September 27, 1974 and had 2 daughters, Tonya and
Shawnice. John worked for Hitchcock Industries for many many years where he retired in 2000. He enjoyed spending time with family especially his grandchildren.

On December 5, 2014 John answered God's call and exchanged time for eternity. He leaves to cherish his fondest memories: A loving and devoted wife Beatrice Watson; 3 daughters, Kim Watson, Tonya Brooks (Demetrius), Shawnice Reid (Shannon) 2 Step-Daughters, Elberta Butler and Carol Soto, 2 sons Gregory Watson (Odette), Dennis Watson and 2 Step-Sons Michael (Chicco) Smith and Jay J Smith; 20 Grandchildren, Michael Smith, Michael Butler, Alberto Soto, Angelita Soto, Alisha Soto, Chicco Smith, Tyann Smith, Sabrina Watson, Arriana Watson, Gabrielle Watson, LaNetrea Watson, LaTisha Wright, DeShane Smith, JaLeesa Wright, Micko Smith, JayVonte Smith, DeJanae McNeal, Paris Smith, Maxwell Smith; 12 Great-Grandchildren, Angelee Smith, Amari Kirscht, Victoria Nelson, Amari Burch, Aubrey Watson, Jaidyn Smith, DeAndre Smith, Elijah Windom, Trinity Smith, Jerimiah Windom, Andrew (AJ Toota) Larkins, Josiah Terrell; 2 brothers Lewis T. Watson and Myles (Fry) Carter (Lou) 3 sisters Willieanna Miller, Josephine Bernard and Dorothy "Dott" Young; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

John is preceded in death by his parents Willie and Addeline, 4 brothers Raymond, Arthur and George 3 sisters Viola, Alvina and Katie Mae and 1 grandson Duane Nelson.