Fredric D. Watson Jr.

1961 - 2025

It is with profound sadness that on 1/26/2025 that Frederick Douglas Watson Jr. spirit left us at the age of 62 years old.  Frederick also lovingly known as Fred, Freddie, and Jr will be greatly missed by family and the wonderful and caring community of St. Colettas of which he was a beloved resident.

Fred was born in Chicago, Illinois on June 30,1961,  to Dr. Frederick (deceased) and Joan (Bell) Watson; (deceased).  Fred spent the first several years of his life being taken care of by parents and grandparents.  He later went to become a resident of the Ludeman Developmental Center in Park Forest, Illinois before being transferred to St. Coletta’s where he remained until the time of his passing. 

Fred will always be remembered as loving and kind with an excellent memory.  Fred would tell his sisters details about their childhood that they could not remember.  It often took 2 or 3 of them to discuss it to come to the conclusion that he was correct and they would wonder how he could remember that.  The staff of St. Coletta’s would lovingly say “Fred knew their work schedules better than they did and don’t come in late because he would tell it.”  He would also keep track of his fellow residents when they went on home visits and knew when they would return back to the home.  Fred will also be remembered for repetitively asking “when are we going to Heaven” and he finally received his request while he peacefully transitioned in his sleep.  Fred is survived by sister Francine Harris, husband Clarence, nephews Robert, Paul, and Joseph Harris, and great nieces and nephews.  Sister Andrea Watson, niece Alexandra and nephew Jacob.  Sister Inga Watson.  The family of St. Coletta’s who truly helped him achieve his greatest potential.

The celebration of life service to honor Frederick Watson Jr. will be held on 2/7/25 at St. Elizabeth Seton Church 9300 W 167th, Orland Hills, IL 60487. Visitation at 10:30am followed at 11:30am by funeral mass. Burial  2/10/2025 10:30am at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Cemetery 20953 W Hoff Rd, Elmwood, IL 60421.

The family would like to express our thanks for sharing in the celebration of Fred Watson Jr’s life.  We deeply appreciate your love and care for Fred.  If desired friends may make memorial contributions to St. Colettas 18350 Crossing Dr, Tinley Park, IL 60487.