Donald Edward Watson

Donald "Donnie" Edward Watson II, age 49, of Hillsboro, passed away December 11, 2025 at UC Health Medical Center. He was born the son of the late Donald Watson and Carole (Tibbs) Watson on September 24, 1976 in Marion County, Ohio. Donnie will be remembered as someone who brought joy, laughter, and a joke everywhere he went. He was never one to take things too seriously, Donnie had a gift for cracking a joke and lightening the mood, no matter the situation. He loved the simple pleasures in life-days spent fishing and loudly cheering on his beloved Cincinnati Bengals and Reds. His greatest passion was cooking. Donnie was happiest filling his home with his sons' friends or his own friends tending to a meal behind his smoker or griddle, creating something delicious to share. Donnie's legacy is one of warmth, humor, and generosity. He leaves behind countless memories of laughter around the table, the smell of great food in the air, and love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Donnie is survived by his loving wife, Dawn Scott Watson, whom he married on February 6, 1999; their sons, Ethan (Hannah) Watson of Georgetown, KY and Bentley (Morgan Fitts) Watson of Lexington, KY; siblings, Monna (Robert) Lamb of Plainfield, Indiana, Troy Bryant of Indiana, and Donyel (Shane) Watson of Martinsville; father and mother-in-law, Montey and Doris Scott of Hillsboro, step-mother, Joyce Watson of Martinsville; and numerous brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, Sheena and Cody Estep. In keeping with his wishes, Donnie will be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald, please visit our floral store.