Deborah Lynn Watson

1951 - 2025

Deborah Lynn Watson passed away on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska, at the age of 74, due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. She was born to Richard and Martha Blackwell on Oct. 17, 1951.
Raised as a preacher's daughter, Debbie developed a love of gospel music, often bragging about her brothers who sang, and learned to play the piano for her church. Debbie married William (Bill) Watson on Feb. 5, 1977.
Debbie dedicated many years of service working at Eielson AFB and the University of Alaska. She finished her career working at the Law Office of Joseph Sheehan, where she worked until her retirement, forming a lasting friendship with Joe and his wife, Pat.
Debbie was very active in the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, serving as department president. Her enthusiasm and infectious laughter could be heard across a room; to her husband, Bill, she was affectionately known as "Hey Woman." Debbie loved to fish, sew, and travel, and was a dedicated UAF Nanooks fan who rarely missed a hockey game.
Debbie is survived by her devoted husband, Bill. She leaves behind her son, Bryant (Shannon) Watson, and their children, Ashleigh and Ainsley; her stepdaughter, Bonnie (William) Smith, and her children, Robb Cawelti, Stewart Cawelti, and Elle (Ethan) Graham; and her daughter, Lynett, and her children, Brittany Sawyer, Mikayla Russell (Trent Shepersky), and Daniel Dubia. She is also survived by her brothers, Richard "Dick" (Judy) Blackwell, Dean (Pam) Blackwell and Dale (Barbara) Blackwell; as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other extended family.
Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Martha Blackwell; her first husband, Daniel Fawcett (1975); and her nephew, Eric Blackwell.
A Celebration of Life will be held from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, at VFW Post 10029 in North Pole, Alaska. The family invites friends to join and kindly asks that attendees wear a shade of purple in honor of Debbie's favorite color.