Donna Maria Watson (nee Blair) passed away at her home in Homosassa, Fla., on Friday, Dec. 20, 2013. She struggled for years with severe migraine headaches; however, she loved her family so much that she lived life to the fullest even in pain.
Born in Paterson, N.J., to George and Maria Blair on Dec. 19, 1947, she attended St. Catherine's School until she graduated in grade eight. The family then moved to Riviera Beach, Fla., in 1960 so that Donna's father could work at Pratt and Whitney. She graduated from Riviera Beach High School in 1965. In 1967, she received an associate's degree from Palm Beach Community College. She then went on to Florida State University, where she graduated with honors, earning her degree in English. In June of 1974, Donna earned her master's degree in Education from Florida Atlantic University.
Donna's teaching career began at Martin County High School in Stuart, Fla. There she met her future husband, David Lee Watson. They married on June 23, 1973. They subsequently moved to Homosassa, Fla. In addition to teaching English at Martin County High School, Donna also taught English in Crystal River High School in Citrus County, and Central High School in Hernando County.
Donna is survived and lovingly remembered by her husband of 40 years, David; and two children, Keri (Robert) Pell of Tallahassee and Matthew (Nicole) Watson of Homosassa. She was the proud grandmother to Matthew and Nicole's children, Austin and Peyton.
Donna is also survived by her mother, Maria; sister, Cathleen Blair of Okeechobee; brother, Kevin Blair (Cynthia) of Palm City; nephews, Sean Blair of Palm City, Scott Blair (Danielle) of Port St. Lucie; sister-in-law, Sandy Watson of Maryland; niece, Melinda and family of Pennsylvania; and nephew, David Kirby and family of West Virginia.
Donna was an avid reader, wrote poetry and loved to travel. In 1997, she was recognized by the National League of American Pen Women for her poem titled, "Old Cracker Home in the Withlacoochee Forest." In 1971, Donna was selected as a Leader of American Secondary Education for her contributions to the advancement of secondary education and service to the community. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Services will be held at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, U.S. 19, Homosassa, Fla., at 10 a.m. Dec. 27, 2013. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warriors Foundation, Alzheimer's Association or the ASPCA. Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

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Published by Citrus County Chronicle on Dec. 22, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Donna Watson

11 Entries

Guest

June 12, 2025

I was a student at Martin County High School during Donna's (Miss Blair's) first teaching job fresh out of college. She always seemed to be smiling and I thought she was so cute. I must admit I had a schoolboy crush. I was shocked when I recently looked her up to find that she passed away at such a young age. I often think of her. It's amazing that after 55 years, a person can still have an effect on someone. I will pray for her and her wonderful family.

Frank Clark

January 13, 2014

I was a student in Donna's Advanced Composition class in 1970, her first year teaching. I haven't seen or spoken to her in 42 years but my thoughts are often with her and she will continue to be a part of my creative process. It was an honor to know her.
I spin in darkness
My sun and moon eclipsed
by her passing light.

Mary Marcussen

December 27, 2013

Dave, Word seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel hearing of your wife Donna's passing. Our hearts go out to you and your entire family in your time of sorrow. She will live forever in your heart.

Yolanda Dorminy

December 25, 2013

I met Donna on a few occasions when I worked with David at Florida Power Corp. My first and lasting impression of Donna was that she was a very warm and caring person. My husband, Jack, and I were shocked to read of her passing. We would like to offer our sincere condolences to David and his family at this sad time. Blessings,
Yolanda Dorminy

Jeanne Rafferty

December 22, 2013

Donna and I became life long friends in HS. Even though I have not seen her for many years we corresponded for the many years since HS. I look at the pic now and I see the same smile and warmth I always knew. I am praying for her family and friends and send them my deepest condolences for the earthly loss of her. May God's love bring you strength and comfort.

December 22, 2013

Dave,
I am shocked and so sorry to hear of Donna's passing. I did not know Donna very well. I met Donna when you were considering running for School Board. She was so kind and friendly. I always remember her during that time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Eric and Antoinette

December 22, 2013

Such a shock to hear of Donna's passing. We never got to know her well, but to hear Dave talk about her lovingly, we know she will be missed tremendously. Our thoughts are with you, Dave, and your family. We are so sorry for your loss.

December 22, 2013

Donna was a loving person and a caring friend!! Laura Kay Darvill

sandy watson

December 22, 2013

Donna was my sister inlay,, but in our hearts we really were sisters at least for the last 40 YEARS, I will miss her every day till we are together again.

Mike Pombier

December 22, 2013

I will remember Donna for her infectious smile and wonderful attitude. I appreciated the short conversations we had when I would call for Dave and could usually hear her joyful thoughts in the background once Dave got to the phone. Knowing Donna for 30 years was just not enough.

Cathleen Blair

December 22, 2013

To my big sister ,
I will miss our talks by phone but now will talk to you at night as I look up to Heaven. Love to all of your family.

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