Charles W. Watson

He attended Ackerville Elementary School and was a graduate of Snowhill Normal Industrial Institute in 1949. Charles Watson confessed his belief in Jesus Christ at an early age and was baptized at the Antioch Baptist Church. After graduating from high school, he enrolled in A&M College in Huntsville, Alabama. After attending one year Charles was drafted into the United States Army in 1950. He received a certificate for medical training in 1952 and served as a medic before being discharged later that year. Charles returned to A&M and graduated in May 1955. While attending A&M he met Ella Swain whom he later married in the spring of 1955, in Cropwell, Alabama. The young couple was blessed with two gifts from God, Therone and Cynthia.

Charles and his wife relocated to Chicago to continue his education and in pursuit of a better life. He graduated from Coyne Electrical School in 1955. Worked with The United States Corps of Engineers until 1961. He was encouraged to become a teacher. While working as a teacher he attended Northeastern University and received a Master of Education.

Charles contacted Worldwide Church of God and asked if they had a church in Chicago. He started attending church on the west side of Chicago. In 1966 he was ordained as a deacon. He served in many positions with the church including coaching women’s basketball and softball teams, coordinated socials and dinners.

He retired in 1997 after teaching for 35 years. But he didn’t just sit down and enjoy his retirement years. He continued to serve his community. He started a Toast Master’s Club. He traveled to 20 different countries. He became a master gardener. He learned how to swim at the age of 80. He served on the Cottage Grove Heights Community Coalition Board in his community. He generously helped his neighbors when needed.

Charles legacy will be cherished and celebrated by daughter Cynthia (Edwin) Marrs, daughter-in-law Melisa Watson, grandchildren Shontelle, Stephon (Corlyn), Stephen (Sheneshia), Jeremy, Krystin (Tyrell) Conner and great grandchildren Conner, Jackie, Alexa, Allen, Alec, Sallie, Sava, Maya, Myles, and Savant. He also leaves behind a sister-in-law, nieces, nephews and a host of cousins and many friends.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents Alco and Ada Mae Watson, wife Ella, son Therone brothers William, Alfred, sister Ceola.

Friends and family will gather for a visitation and funeral for Charles that will be held on Saturday, May 18th, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, 4727 West 103rd Street, Oak Lawn, Illinois 60453. Funeral service will begin at 12:00 PM. Interment Monday, May 20th, 2024 please meet at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home at 9:00 AM. for procession to Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 West Hoff Road, Elwood, Illinois 60421 for a 10:30 AM committal service.