John Arthur Watson

John was born and raised in his beloved Rhode Island by his mother Grace Theresa Watson (nee Connolly) and with his brother, Arthur S. Watson (Art). His father, Arthur Sydney Watson, was a Merchant Mariner who died in the line of duty during WWII.

John joined the U.S. Air Force in 1953 as an Aircraft Control and Warning Operator. He retired from the Air Force in 1975 after more than 21 years of service at the grade of Senior Master Sergeant. While in the Air Force, John worked as an Electronic Countermeasures Superintendent at assignments mostly in Alaska supporting North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) Command.

John had been an avid walker and regularly participated in water aerobics. He enjoyed big band music of the 50’s and vintage war films.

John is survived by his wife of nearly 50 Years, Barbara of Lady Lake, FL. His daughters Karen Louise (David) Watson Porter of Irvine, CA and Susan Teresa (Chris) Watson Abrahams of Many, LA, his Stepson David (Dorothy) Higginbotham of Lady Lake, Fl, Stepdaughter Juliann (Thomas) Gonsor of Layton, UT, plus 8 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Art of East Greenwich, RI, his niece and goddaughter Victoria (Mike) Guy and great-nephews Ryan and Sean, his niece Erin Watson, and great-nephew Zane Watson. John was preceded in death by his parents Grace Theresa Connolly Watson and Arthur Sydney Watson and his nephew John Patrick Watson.

The family would like to thank nurses Ashley, Kathy and Gilbert of Cornerstone Hospice and the staff of Watercrest Spanish Springs for the care and compassion they showed for John in his final days.

John's daughters are grateful to David and Dorothy Higginbotham for their help with John over the past few years.

Interment will be at Florida National Cemetery Bushnell. No memorial service is planned at John’s request.