Willie Francis Watson

1927 - 2025

Willie Francis Watson, of Fernandina Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025. He was 98 years old. He was born on September 8, 1927, in Princeton, Kentucky, to the late Fred and Francis Watson.
After graduating from high school, Willie proudly served four years in the United States Marine Corps and remained an active member of the Marine Corps League. Following his service, he attended Western Kentucky University, where he played football and earned his degree. Willie was employed at Container Corporation of America in Fernandina Beach for 35 years before retiring.
In 1955, he married Joyce Dearing, and together they built a loving family and shared 70 wonderful years of marriage. An avid golfer, runner, and sports enthusiast, he participated in the River Run, coached football umpired baseball and was a devoted Florida Gator fan. A member of First Baptist Church for more than 60 years Willie participated in multiple mission trips and lived daily through service, kindness, and love for others.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Watson; children Fran Major (David) Tony Watson (Deb), and Joe Watson (Tina); grandchildren Amelia Stevens (Judson), Ben Major (Jordyn), Ryan Watson, Cole Watson (Emma), Cassady Hewett (Clay), and Carmen Hoffman (Tristan) and great-grandchildren Rylee, Benton, Masyn, Kyson, Will, and Grey.
He will be laid to rest, with military honors, at Jacksonville National Cemetery at 11:00 AM on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
Willie will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, Marine, and friend - a true American who loved God, his family, and his country.
Donations may be made in his memory to First Baptist Church in Fernandina or the Marine Corp League of Fernandina. 
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