Judy Colette Grandy Watson

Judy Colette Grandy Watson, 74, of Statham, GA, passed away on January 13, 2023. She was born on March 2, 1948 to the late Thomas Earl Grandy and Iona Mildred Prater Grandy and grew up in Batesburg, SC. After high school, she attended some college before leaving her small hometown to become a stewardess at the young age of 19.

In 1969, Colette married Benjamin Michael Watson, also of Batesburg. They made their home in Atlanta, GA and had two children, Breena Colette (July 4, 1975) and Michael Thomas (May 27, 1977).

At the age of 26, Colette was Senior Flight Attendant on Eastern Airlines Flight 212, which crashed just short of the airport runway in Charlotte, NC on September 11, 1974. Of the 82 people on board, she was one of 10 survivors. Though this tragedy impacted Colette's life greatly, she continued flying with Eastern for a total of 23 years, until the airline closed in January of 1991. She was grateful for her job, allowing her to see the world and make lifelong friendships. As much as possible, she brought her husband, parents, and children on trips with her, which have become cherished memories for her family today.

After flying, Colette was a secretary in DeKalb County Schools until retirement. She enjoyed her job, again creating unforgettable friendships with hilarious stories that she reminisced often. Colette felt so blessed to have so much fun after she retired. She attended every social event of the Church on Main’s Senior Ministry: traveling, eating dinner, or playing cards. She relished helping care for her grandsons and rarely missed a school play, luncheon, or sports event. When she wasn’t with people, she enjoyed cooking and crafting. More than anything, she loved Jesus, and out of her love for Him flowed her love for people.

Colette was the most incredible mother. As their biggest fan and most patient listener, she guided Bree and Michael through the highs and lows of life, always providing a safe place for their hearts to land. Colette made everyone feel wanted and accepted. She was an exceptional role model for her children to learn how to overcome adversity. She raised them to work hard and be inclusive and kind, no matter what. She reminded them of their purpose—to love God and love others. She will be missed more than words can express.

Colette was predeceased by her parents, Earl and Ona Grandy. She is survived by her husband, Mike Watson of Madison, GA; her children Michael Watson & Bree Watson Johnson (Shaun), grandsons Ian Michael (16) and Mason Hunter (13); her sister, Linda Grandy Montgomery (Sam) of Columbia, SC; her nieces, Alison Montgomery Sturkie (Travis) of Columbia, SC and Brooke Montgomery Kiesler (Mike) of Gilbert, SC.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Senior Ministry at the Church on Main. Mom’s connectedness to the Senior Ministry gave her immense joy, and in many ways, kept her alive.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 22 at the Church on Main, 2400 Main Street East, Snellville, GA 30078. Family visitation begins at 1:00 pm, with the service to follow at 2:00 pm.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.