Karleen Elizabeth Watson

Karleen Elizabeth Humphrey-Watson/Golias
August 18, 1944 – March 2, 2025
Karleen Elizabeth Humphrey-Watson/Golias, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on the afternoon of March 2, 2025. It was the kind of Texas day she cherished-golden sunlight, a soft breeze carrying the scent of spring, and birds singing in the trees outside her home in Dripping Springs. She was surrounded by love, with her son and daughter by her side, her faithful terrier, Benny, curled close, and the steady presence of family and dear friends nearby.
Born in Beaumont, Texas, on August 18, 1944, Karleen was the second of seven children to Horace Gavin "HG" Humphrey Jr. and Audrey Marie Snyder-Humphrey. From a young age, she carried a strong sense of independence, a quick wit, and a deep love for her family. She went on to attend the University of Texas before earning her Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Lamar University, setting the foundation for a life devoted to learning, mentorship, and personal growth.
Karleen had a natural gift for teaching, making every child feel seen and capable. Yet, she never shied away from new challenges, stepping into the pharmaceutical industry and becoming the first female representative for Ortho-Novum before continuing her career with Lederle Laboratories. But no matter where her path led, she was always drawn back to the classroom, where her impact stretched far beyond textbooks. She stayed late to help struggling students, encouraged those who doubted themselves, and kept in touch with many long after they had moved on, adopting them as part of her ever-growing family.
Her generosity extended far beyond the classroom. Karleen opened her home to those in need, gave freely without hesitation, and offered prayers that carried real weight. It was an extension of who she was-someone who believed deeply in the quiet strength of simply showing up for others.
Her love for learning was matched only by her love for life itself. She carried an adventurous spirit, embracing new experiences with open arms-whether exploring a new city, sharing laughter over a meal, or tending to the flowers in her garden. She was the heart of many gatherings, bringing people together over great food and good wine, perfecting her father's award-winning BBQ recipes with the "Good Time Gang." But more than the meals or the places she visited, it was the people who made her happiest. She cultivated beauty in everything she touched-growing friendships as effortlessly as she grew flowers, leaving behind a life as rich and full as the gardens she so lovingly tended.
In time, Karleen retired to care for her mother, a reflection of the deep love and devotion she had always shown to family. She later moved to Dripping Springs to be closer to her daughter, Adrianne, and to embrace her cherished role as Granny to her granddaughter, Audrey Sloane Golias. Already deeply loved by her grandchildren, she poured her heart into this new chapter, creating memories filled with laughter, warmth, and the simple joy of being present.
Her final years were marked by resilience as she faced Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a rare neurodegenerative disease. Even in the face of this challenge, she remained steadfast in her commitment to others, choosing to donate tissue for research so that future generations might benefit. In her memory, her family invites donations to CurePSP (https://www.psp.org/) to support research and awareness.
Karleen was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Golias; her parents, Horace "HG" Humphrey and Audrey Humphrey; her siblings, Carolyn Humphrey Beggs Kirbow, Michael Humphrey, and Mark Humphrey; and her daughter-in-law, Tamela Harris-Watson.
She is survived by her sisters, Stella Humphrey Metcalf, Julie Humphrey, and Kathy Humphrey-Peyton, along with their children. She also leaves behind her son, Wade Watson, and his wife, Shayla Zuzukin; her grandsons, Miles Watson, Maxle Watson, and Seth Watson; and her daughter, Adrianne Nicole Golias, and her wife, Andy Stewart-Golias, along with her granddaughter, Audrey Sloane Golias. She is also survived by Lynn Gamblin, Terri Stewart, and many other extended family members and dear friends.
Karleen's life was one of strength, generosity, and love-whether for her family, her students, or the countless friends she gathered along the way. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her. Though she is gone, her spirit will live on in the laughter of her children and grandchildren, in the friendships she nurtured, in the students she inspired, and in every garden where something beautiful continues to grow.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025. from 3:00 to 6:00PM at Mackenzie's Pub, 229 Dowlen Rd, Beaumont, TX, 77706.
We will have drinks, appetizers, and live music. We hope you will join us to share memories and celebrate Karleen.