William Jones Watson passed away Sunday, December 11, 2011 at Peace River Hospital. He was born on October 19, 1931 in Dunkirk, N.Y.
He married the love of his life, Martha A. Lins, on Nov. 3, 1953 in Albuquerque, N.M., and she survives. He is also survived by his brother, David (Elaine) Watson of Forestville, N.Y.; his three children, Terri (Robert) Mercer, Julie Babbitt, and Thomas Watson; six grandchildren, Mariah Mercer, Kathryn Gallant, Matthew (Micah) Mercer, Abigail Mercer, William Jackson, and Joseph Watson, and two great-grandchildren, Elias Mercer and Ezra Mercer.
He was preceded in death by his brother, James R. Watson; sister, Beatrice Day; and his parents, William Joseph and Mary Elizabeth Watson.
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A 1950 graduate of Dunkirk High School, Bill studied art at Fredonia University and served in the U.S. Army. He and Martha owned the Meat Counter in Dunkirk for many years. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Dunkirk, where he was Sunday school superintendent, deacon and choir member. He also made beautiful music as a barbershop singer. Bill loved model airplanes, earning his pilot's license while he was in California. He was an avid and talented artist and photographer. Many of his works won blue ribbons at the local fair and other art festivals and are on display at several Florida businesses.
Bill was a kind and gentle man of God who cherished and honored his wife, children and grandchildren throughout his lifetime. A playful storyteller and joker, he never ended a conversation without telling his family "I love you."
Services took place Wednesday at Murdock Christian Church in Port Charlotte. A private memorial is also planned. Inturnment will take place at a later date in Willowbrook Park Cemetery, Dunkirk.
Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to sign the memory book and extend condolences to the family. Arrangements are by Roberson Funeral Homes & Crematory Port Charlotte Chapel. Memorials can be made to First Step Family Violence Intervention Center, P.O. Box 1109, Fostoria, OH 44830.
