Obituary published on Legacy.com by Forrest Funeral Home - Hattiesburg on Sep. 29, 2023.
Title: A Journey of Love and Legacy: The Life of Dennis Lee Watson Sr.
Chapter 1: Roots of Resilience
Dennis Watson Sr. was born to P.W. and Eartha Watson on a crisp spring day on March 08, 1949, in
Hattiesburg, MS. His story was initiated from humble beginnings. Growing up in a large family, he learned the values of hard work, resilience, and the importance of family. Despite challenges in life, his parents instilled in him the belief that perseverance is the catalyst for overcoming all obstacles.
He passed away on September 27, 2023, at Forrest General Hospital in
Hattiesburg, MS. He is preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette Roberts Watson; his parents, P.W. and Eartha Watson; one sister, Priscilla Watson, and two brothers, Sammie Moody and Johnny B. Watson.
Chapter 2: The School Life
In his youth, Dennis was known for his insatiable curiosity. He graduated from Rowan High School and attended The University of Southern Mississippi. His desire to try new things and meet new people led him to pursue a career in the U.S. Army. Despite financial constraints, he worked multiple jobs, including Hercules, Georgia Pacific, and the Methodist Hospital. Throughout his career, he discovered a passion for working in the field of construction.
Chapter 3: Building a Family
In his mid-20s, Dennis met his wife, Jeanette. Together, they embarked on a journey of building a family. The early years embodied laughter, challenges, and the joy of watching their family develop. Dennis leaves to cherish his memories: two sons, Dennis L. Watson Jr. and Nicholas A. Watson; and three daughters, Shalonda (Phillip Sr.) Watson Williams, Dr. Della D. Watson, and Victoria A. Watson.
Chapter 4: Trials and Triumph
Life wasn't without its fair share of trials. In his later years, Dennis faced health challenges that tested his resilience. But with the unwavering support of family, he conquered adversity, emerging more assertive and more appreciative of the fragility of life. Dennis leaves to cultivate his remembrance: three brothers, Attorney Percy (Barbara) Watson, J.D. Watson, and Lonnie Watson; and four sisters: Gloria Watson, Dr. Deborah (Ronnie) Norfleet, Sylvia (Clayton) Wright, and Audrey Watson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Chapter 5: A Grandfather's Joy
As Dennis transitioned into the role of a grandfather and great-grandfather, he found great joy in playing with his grandchildren during family visits. He reveled in the simple pleasures of sharing stories of how his fellow construction crew built Forrest General Hospital and Hattiesburg Clinic. Dennis leaves to preserve his memories: eleven grandchildren: Dalvin Watson, Phillip Williams Jr., LaDarius (Shontelay) Williams Sr., Derian Watson, George Fairley III, Carisma Graves, Markevious Williams, Nicholas Watson Jr., Kenyon Watson, and Dennis Watson, III; and eight great-grandchildren: Markevious Williams Jr., Marquis Williams, JeKalyn Nelson, Xaniyah Jetoria Fairley, LaDarius Williams Jr., Aaron Brown Jr., Brayden Brown, and Soulani Watson.
Epilogue: A Life Well Lived
Dennis Watson's life was a testament to the power of resilience. As the pages of his life story turn, his impact resonates in the hearts of those who knew him. As we turn the last page of this written account, we don't say farewell to Dennis; instead, we celebrate a life lived fully, a legacy that endures, and the enduring love that continues to illuminate the path for those who follow.