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Michael Watson Obituary
February 16, 1951 - June 1, 2024
Columbia, South Carolina - Michael S. Watson, February 16, 1951 – June 1, 2024, was born in upstate South Carolina to the Gilder Plantation, where his mother's family settled in 1760. He is predeceased by his father, Paul Watson, mother, Catherine Austin Watson, and eldest brother, Wyckliffe Watson. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Ginnie Halbleib Watson from Rochester, NY, and their three children, Marissa Watson of Boise, ID, Jonathan Watson (wife Megan and child Olivia) of Annapolis, MD, and Hannah Watson of Portland, OR. He is also survived by his brothers, Lawrence (Toshiko), Austin (Carol), and Erwin (Lea) Watson, many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Michael graduated from Hillcrest High School and Clemson University where he earned degrees in Architecture. He worked in London before returning to Clemson to study at the Genoa Center in Italy. He and Ginnie were married at the Genoa City Hall on Via Garibaldi in 1978. After college, he worked in Atlanta for Thompson, Ventulett & Stainback (TVS) for eleven years then returned with their young family to South Carolina to work in Columbia with Molten/Lamar Architects, and subsequently for a thirty-year career at Watson Tate Savory (WTS). He was elevated to a Fellowship in The American Institute of Architects after serving on the AIA South Carolina Board of Directors and then as its president. His work at WTS was focused on Higher Education projects for Institutions in South and North Carolina. He was very proud of the key WTS staff and their long history together. His wife, Ginnie, was the business/financial manager as well as his life-long love and partner. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 1:30 pm at the University of SC Hollings Special Collections Library within the Thomas Cooper Library Building at 1322 Greene Street, Columbia, SC on September 6, 2024, followed by light refreshments at the Library. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to "The AIASC Center for Architecture" Elevation Campaign, 1530 Main Street, Suite C, Columbia, SC 29201. Office: 803.252.6050.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Watson
George N Miller
June 10, 2025
I miss Michael. I was just talking about him yesterday and how I miss chatting with him while we walked. Such an interesting guy. Good man. Fine man. Michael left a good mark on this earth.
Matt and Woody
September 23, 2024
We are saddened to hear about Michael's passing. We've done business with Michael and his firm for over 20 years. He was always such a pleasant man and it was a joy to work with him, his wife Ginnie, and the staff. We are sorry for your loss. -Matt and Woody - C.O.W.
Jim Anderson
September 13, 2024
I am saddened to learn this. Sincere condolences to Michael´s family, friends and colleagues. I knew him as a professional and gentleman.
Adriane
July 30, 2024
I am so sorry to hear of the Watson's loss. I learned so much in my years at Watson Tate Savory, in no small part due to Michael's influence. My thoughts are with your family at this time.
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Harry
June 17, 2024
I worked with Michael on several projects. I considered him a friend and valued our relationship. I remember the good times with him, Sanders and Regina at 2500 Devine Street building....so many people that walked those halls have left us.... So we treasure the good times we have and as Psalms 90 says we numbers our days we had together .... My prayers go to Ginnie and the rest of his family. L&P Harry Collins.
Don Snow
June 10, 2024
I grew up knowing Mike as a not-too-distant neighbor, friend, and classmate at Hillcrest High School. We worked together one summer at a farm and both of us drove school buses while students at Hillcrest. We reconnected at our 50th high school reunion about 5 years ago. Prayers are with his family at his passing.
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