Raymond H. Watson Jr.

Raymond Henry Watson became a cherished member of the Maher Center family when he moved into the New Meadow Road Group Home on May 8, 2018. Raymond was born on August 14, 1961, in Tucson, Arizona. He was one of four children born to Raymond and Julia (Church) Watson. Raymond's father grew up in Connecticut, and his mother in Exeter, Rhode Island.

When the family returned to Rhode Island, Raymond lived at home for many years with the support of services. As Raymond grew older and his mother's health declined, placement at Ladd School was explored. In August of 1976, Raymond went to Ladd School for respite, and one year later, on July 5, 1977, at the age of 15, he was permanently admitted.

At the age of 31, Raymond left Ladd School and moved into a group home on Pasture Lane in Charlestown. In May of 2018, at age 57, he moved into the New Meadow Road Group Home. In September of 2023, Raymond transferred to the Jepson Lane Group Home, where he remained until his passing on January 3, 2026, at the age of 64.

Raymond was loved deeply by his housemates and staff. He was a quiet, gentle man with a presence that naturally drew people to him. Raymond loved the attention of others and found great joy in listening to music. He could often be found relaxing with a housemate, enjoying smooth jazz, rock and roll, country music, or especially Michael Jackson-his favorite. To Ray, the genre never mattered, as long as there was music.

Ray truly loved being part of the group. When he wasn't enjoying music, he could often be found in the living room, appearing to watch television while actually taking in everything happening around him. Simple pleasures brought him the greatest happiness-rides in the van, sitting outside in the warm sunshine, and most of all, his afternoon nap. Ray had a way of letting staff know, in no uncertain terms, when it was time to rest.

Raymond will be remembered for his beautiful smile and contagious laugh. He was easy to please, easy to care for, and brought a quiet joy to those around him. A kind and gentle soul, Raymond will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.