Lillie Mae Watson

1942 - 2026

Lillie Mae Watson was born on February 17, 1942, in Edenton, North Carolina, to the late Josh Welch and Mary Elizabeth Croom. She transitioned from this life on January 10, 2026.

Lillie Mae was a proud member of the graduating Class of 1960 at D.F. Walker High School in Edenton, North Carolina. Following graduation, she relocated to Petersburg, Virginia, where she embraced her roles as wife and mother and raised her four children. Once her children reached school age, she began working as a 4-H instructor for Petersburg Public Schools. She later continued her professional career as a Certified Nurse’s Aide with Care Advantage, serving others with dedication and compassion.

In 1995, Lillie Mae met the love of her life, Joe Nathan Watson. They were united in marriage in December 1996 and celebrated 29 years of marriage in December 2025. She was a devoted member of Star of Hope Bibleway Church, where she faithfully served as a Missionary, Sunday School teacher, choir member, and Church Mother.

Above all else, Lillie Mae was known for her deep love of family and home. She cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A meticulous homemaker, she took great pride in her home and was widely known for her exceptional cooking—if you stopped by, you were going to eat. She was a true community mother, welcoming all children with open arms, always guided by firm, Godly love. Feisty, demanding, and strong-willed until the very end, Lillie Mae reigned as the undisputed Queen of her family.

Lillie Mae leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Joe Nathan Watson; her brother, Jessie Croom (Annie Croom); her children, Deneen Swann, Angelette Foote, Oscar Boyd, Jr., and Brian Boyd; five stepchildren; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Josh Welch and Mary Elizabeth Croom; her sister, Esther Thorne; her granddaughter, DeShayla Boyd; and her great-grandson, Chandler Teachy.

Services for Mrs. Lillie Mae Watson will be held at 1PM Monday January 19, 2026 at the Petersburg Chapel - Joseph M. Johnson & Son Funeral Home.

Public viewing will be held from 12 Noon to 7PM Sunday January 18, 2026 at the Petersburg Chapel - Joseph M. Johnson & Son Funeral Home.

Funeral services are entrusted to the professional staff- Petersburg Chapel- Joseph M. Johnson & Son Funeral Home, 530 S. Sycamore St., Petersburg, VA 23803 (804) 863-4411. www.johnsonservices.us