Willie Watson

Willie Beatrice Watson PORTSMOUTH - On Wednesday morning, July 1, 2009, Willie Beatrice "Bea" Mercer Watson peacefully went to rest in the arms of her heavenly Father. Born April 1, 1919 in Currituck County, North Carolina, to the late Noah and Mary Alice Mercer, she was the widow of Dr. R.M. Watson. She was a graduate of the Currituck County public schools and McGlone's Beauty College. An accomplished beautician, she had successful practices in Elizabeth City at Bea & Jean's Beauty Parlor and in Portsmouth at Hattie's Beauty Shop. She was a member of New Providence Baptist Church, Shawboro, N.C., and former member of St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church in Portsmouth. She loved attending church and listening to good preaching and gospel music. Her memories will always be cherished by her daughter, Clementine Cone (Charles); grandchildren, Dariel Dixon (LaWanda), Charles Cone Jr. (Leigh), Randy Cone, Ashley Cone; a son, Ellis Mercer (Mamie); devoted nieces and nephews, Randolph Spellman (Katherine), Ulysses Spellman, Audrey Worrell (Charles); two sisters-in-law, Mamie Mercer and Martha King; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends whom she loved dearly. She will also be missed greatly by her very dear friend and partner, Gladys Hill. A funeral will be held at noon Monday in St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church, 2714 Frederick Blvd. Corprew Funeral Home is in charge.