John Thomas Watson

John Thomas Watson entered into rest Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the age of 80 years. Beloved husband of and reunited in Heaven with wife, the late Yong Watson; devoted father of sons Robert “Bob” (Celia) Watson and Brian (Shelly) Watson; cherished grandfather of Lucy, Alice, Penelope, David, and Alex; and dear brother of the late Robert Watson and the late Donald Watson. John is also survived by dear friends and community members. 

John was born in late July 1946 in Chicago, Illinois, to parents Luther and Helen, nee McCabe, Watson. Throughout his life, John was known for his helpful and friendly spirit. John served his county for 20 years in the United States Army before serving his community in Illinois as a case worker for Children and Family Services. 

Following his retirement, John became an avid birder and photographer, his sharp eye finding, appreciating, and capturing some of the most beautiful fleeting moments. John’s artistry and friendliness made his involvement in the respective communities a welcome addition where many friendships were made, especially within the St. Louis Camera Club. Even toward the end of his life, John's years at Bethesda Terrace were marked by the many meaningful friendships he developed and the genuine sense of community that made it a treasured home. 

John’s legacy of respect, care, and faith lives on in the hearts and souls of his beloved family who will cherish their memories of him for the rest of their lives. We mourn our loss of John and his strength, but we celebrate that he is united with his family and the Lord. May he rest in peace. We thank the team with deGreeff Hospice House for helping John and his family find comfort and peace in his final days. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to de Greeff Hospice House in John’s honor. 

John’s memorial service will be held on Monday September 28, 2026, at 11:30 AM at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons South County Chapel. Immediately following, cemetery ceremony and subsequent inurnment in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, alongside John’s cherished wife, the late Yong.