Thomas Joseph Watson

Thomas “Tom” Joseph Watson JR., 86, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at his home in Juno Beach Florida. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and dear friend who was very much loved and will be greatly missed.

Tom was born on October 15, 1933 in New York City to Thomas J. Watson Sr. and Rose Elizabeth McElkenny. He grew up on 10th Ave on the the West side of NYC in “Hell’s Kitchen”. He cherished his role of big brother to Margaret, Janet, & Ronnie.

He graduated from Sacred Heart HS in NYC and thereafter Saint Bonaventure University with a Bachelor of Science in Philosophy. He embraced his college experience and remained very close with a group of college friends “The Apostles” throughout his life.

After graduation he went on to Officer Candidate School & received his commission as a Naval officer in 1956. He served as an Intelligence Officer on the USS Belmont during the Vietnam War. Lieutenant Watson was Honorably discharged in 1965.

Tom was a devout Catholic who was deeply committed to his faith in Christ. After much soul searching & reflection he decided in the Spring of 1966 to enter the Pope St. John XXIII seminary. However, God had different plans for Thomas. While home for Christmas vacation in NYC, he met the one true love of his life, Margaret, and they married on the 5th of January 1967.

It was truly love at first sight. They devoted their lives to one & another constantly demonstrating what truly loving someone with all your heart and soul looked like. Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years Margaret Elizabeth Watson, son Thomas, daughter Janet, and six grandchildren Ryan, Conner, Caroline, Jacob, Kathryn, Maclean.

Tom worked in the Title insurance business for over 25 years and after he retired, was committed to his volunteer/endowment planning work with the Catholic Church. He always went out of his way to help those less fortunate.

Tom was the classic definition of a true gentleman of unquestionable character. He never spoke an unkind word. He was deeply spiritual, loved God and always put others first. He was very thoughtful, well-read and sought-out for his sage & wise counsel.

He loved the game of golf. He especially loved playing with friends and family at Turtle Creek. He also enjoyed heading down to the Brigadoon pool in the late afternoon, camping out in the corner by the deep end & chit chatting with anyone who happened to walk or swim past.

A Resurrection Mass will take place March 13th at 10 AM at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church. In Liu of flowers please make a donation Parkinson’s Foundation.