Mary Watson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Mrs. Mary Evaline Watson, 85, of Cherokee, Kansas, passed away early Friday morning, January 24, 2020, at Joplin Health and Rehabilitation after a long illness.

Mary was born May 21, 1934, in Holyrood, Kansas, one of 12 children born to the union of the late John and Ivy (Newport) Brisbin. She attended schools in Cherokee. At the age of 12, Mary gave her life to Christ and never looked back. She attended church regularly in Pittsburg, Kansas, and Columbus, Kansas, and was well-loved by her church families, who lovingly called her “Miss Mary”. Mary was a wonderful baker. She took desserts to church each Sunday and her German Chocolate cake couldn’t be beat.

On December 31, 1952, Mary was united in marriage to Ronald R. Watson and together they had two sons, Dave and Jeff.

She worked as a homemaker, tirelessly caring for the home and raising her two boys. They resided in Independence, Missouri, from 1952 – 1988 and relocated back to Cherokee in 1989 to be closer to her family. Ronald and Mary shared 59 years of marriage before his passing on January 28, 2012.

Along with baking, Mary loved outdoor yard work and keeping up her lawn. She was an avid reader and had a huge heart for dogs. She enjoyed life and the simple things it had to offer. Mary had a sweet spirit and an even bigger sweet tooth; Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups were worth just as much as gold to her. She let faith lead her heart always and family was the light of her life.

In addition to her parents and husband, Mary was preceded in death by all 11 siblings.

Survivors include her two sons, Dave Watson of Independence, Missouri, and Jeff Watson and her favorite daughter-in-law, Tammy, of Carl Junction, Missouri; three grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Graveside memorial services will be announced at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.