Shirley Mae Lewis Watson

On Friday, February 6, 2026, Shirley Mae Lewis Watson passed away peacefully at the age of 91. Shirley was born August 18, 1934, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She was the daughter of Allen and Marguerite Lewis. Shirley went to work at the bank after graduating from Istrouma High School. It was there that she met and later married William O. “Billy” Watson. They were married for 66 years. 

Shirley’s joy was her family. She was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. Billy was often away from home working as a mariner on the Mississippi River. Shirley made sure her children had everything they needed and then some. Billy and Shirley hosted large family gatherings at their home over the years. They especially enjoyed getting the family together to celebrate holidays. There was always lots of laughter and stories to be told. Shirley’s pancakes, dressing and cupcakes were the best! 

Shirley was small but spunky. She will be remembered for her beauty and style, her courage, and for the great love she had for her four children, twelve grandchildren and twenty great grands. Shirley proudly attended birthday parties, weddings, dance recitals, sporting events and graduations. She was happy to show you the bulletin board in her apartment with newspaper clippings about her family and the many cards and photos they gave her. Shirley’s life was, indeed, well lived. 

Shirley’s family is grateful for the many kind folks who took care of her as she faced the challenges of aging and dementia. Special thanks to Kathy, Sunshine, Mary, Marsha, Ronisha, Cassie and Loise. Thanks to Dr. Shawn Hall and her staff, and to the staff of The Barclay House and The Crossing at Clarity Hospice. 

Shirley was predeceased by her husband, William O. Watson, Jr.; mother and father, Allen and Marguerite Lewis; siblings, Marguerite Awagain, Catherine Helmke, Jean Gremillion, Judith Gill, and Allen Lewis, Jr.; and her great grandson, Henry Pecue IV. She is survived by her daughters, Susan Watson Pecue (Henry), Margaret Watson, Tina Watson Walker (Lyle); her son, William O. Watson, III (Ronda); brother, Richard Lewis (Babs); sister, Gloria Jeter; her grandchildren and their children; and numerous nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed. 

Pallbearers will be her grandsons, Garrett Watson, William Watson IV, Jerry Falgoust Jr., Christian Walker, Matthew Walker, Michael Pecue, and Henry Pecue III. Honorary pallbearers will be her great grandsons. 

Visitation will be held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Highway in Baton Rouge, on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 12:30 p.m. until the Funeral Service begins at 2:30 p.m. Entombment will follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those wishing to honor Shirley do so by making a donation to The Dunham School in Baton Rouge or a charity of your choice.