Judith J. Watson

            Judith Jean Watson, age 82 of Highlandville, died March 29, 2023.  She was born September 17, 1940 in San Diego, California, the daughter of Edward and Mercedes (Howery) Anderson.

            On April 5, 1958, Judy was united in marriage to Arleigh Burdette Watson, who preceded her in death on May 7, 2011. The couple lived in Newton, Kansas before moving to Highlandville in 1973 to be close to Judy’s parents.  Judy and Burdette were blessed with five children, four boys and one girl.

            Judy had several occupations throughout her life including working in social services and various clerical and retail positions.  Judy retired from Walgreens, where she worked in the cosmetics department.  She enjoyed helping others feel pretty. Judy was artistic like her mother, Mercedes. She was always working on crafts and always had a project going. Judy made beautiful hand-painted Christmas ornaments.  She was also an avid crocheter.

            Judy had a closet full of board games and loved to play with her family. She was a pro at Yahtzee and the undisputed queen of Scrabble.  Judy also enjoyed reading, working on puzzles and playing quest games.  Judy loved to collect frog figurines and had quite a whimsical collection.  

            Survivors include:  five children and their spouses, Corey and Patty Watson of Highlandville, Cary and Sylvia Watson of Springfield, Tammy and Ross Trimble of Clever, Brian and Fari Watson of Hagerstown, Maryland and Robert and Tammy Watson of Branson; 14 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; and her siblings, Deanna Baugh of Sedgewick, Kansas, Linda Eshelman of Sedgewick, Kansas, Dan and Ruby Anderson of Salem, Arkansas, Rick and Cynthia Anderson of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Debbie and Phil Dougan of Ozark.