Anthony "Tony" Watson

Anthony "Tony" Watson, 65, of Bloomington, Illinois, passed away at his home on September 21, 2025. He was born on December 30, 1959, in Salina, Kansas, to Andrew M. Watson, Sr. and the late Betty A. Frye. He was lovingly raised by his mother and stepfather, the late Lee P. Frye, Jr. Tony was a man whose presence could fill a room without ever demanding attention. He lived with compassion, humor, and genuineness, embodying the phrase, "what you see is what you get." His love was unquestioned concerning his children and grandchildren, who were his greatest joy. His faith was a quiet cornerstone of his life, reflected in his membership at Reconcile Church. For many years, Tony worked at Illinois State University and later continued serving his community through odd jobs until his retirement. Beyond his work, he poured himself into the simple joys of life: playing chess, cheering on the Chicago Bears, watching old Westerns and The Andy Griffith Show, indulging his sweet tooth, and most of all, being Tony-not messing with anyone, and definitely not letting anyone mess with him. He simply loved his family, his sports, and his time in his own way. His love for family was unmistakable. It was felt in the way he spoke to them, the phone calls he made, and the text messages he sent just to check in. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren never doubted his love; they only wished they had more time with him. Tony leaves to cherish his memory his children: LaToya T. Newman (James) of Atlanta, GA; Anthony Darnell Watson of Bloomington, IL; and Renee A. Allison (Timothy) of Bloomington, IL; twelve grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his father, Andrew M. Watson, Sr.; his stepmother, Aurzelia Watson; his siblings: Garry Dalson (Lebanon), Darrell Watson (Virginia) Byron, GA; Andrew Watson (Debra) Fairview Heights, IL; Valerie Wright (Bloomington, IL); Lee P. Frye, III, Dell City, OK; Ricky Frye (Lorie) Apple Valley, CA; Charles Watson, Centerville, OH; Michael Watson (Julie), Bethel, OH. Lytnia Ruffin (Frederick), Pickerington, OH, his maternal aunt, Lynda Squire, and maternal uncle, Melvin Royston-the last surviving siblings of his late mother, and one of his faves Louis "Shon' Marshall. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Betty A. Frye; his stepfather, Lee P. Frye, Jr.; and his grandparents. Anthony "Tony" Watson will be remembered not only for the life he lived but for the love he gave. He will be deeply missed and forever celebrated by all who were blessed to know him.