Gayle Martin Watson

Gayle passed away peacefully on July 20, 2023. She was born in Nashville, TN on September 14, 1937, daughter of Corinne Tanksley Martin & Dr. Travis Henry Martin. She attended Burton School, Hillsboro High School & Vanderbilt University where she was in the AOPi sorority. Gayle was the middle child of the family, the peacemaker & rule follower. She had a close relationship with both of her sisters, their families and her extended family.

In 1960, Gayle married James Overton Watson Jr. at the old Brentwood Methodist Church. That same year, she started her 36 year teaching career in Metro Nashville Public Schools. She taught first grade at Tom Joy (1960-1964), kindergarten at Ford Greene (1970-1982), and Gower (1982-2002). Many of her former students remained connected with Gayle over the years. She was always happy to visit with & hear what was happening in their lives at the time.

In 1964, Julie was born. Gayle stopped teaching to stay home with Julie for her first 5 years. During this time she also went to get her kindergarten certification. She made sure Julie experienced a childhood filled with books, creativity, and nature. All outings included a hand full of library books for Gayle to read to Julie or some creative project to pursue. Visiting interesting places and learning the wonders of nature were important parts of life. When Julie started kindergarten, Gayle returned to the classroom to start her long career of being a kindergarten teacher. Gayle remained in kindergarten as Julie completed her education through her Master’s degree and began teaching preschool at West End Methodist Church.

When not working, Jim & Gayle enjoyed traveling together, working in their yard and entertaining. Gayle was one to hold friendships dear for a lifetime. She often spoke of friends from her past, knew where they used to live and all about their families. Over her lifetime, she continued to stay in contact with many of them.

After her retirement, Gayle loved spending time with Jim, other family members & friends. She enjoyed shopping with Julie, taking trips with the bank travel group, and enjoying the beautiful outdoors that Jim had created using his gift of landscaping in their yard and many others around the area. Gayle immensely loved her granddaughter, celebrated her achievements, attended her school and sports events, encouraged her when she struggled & loved her artistic creations. She was so glad she was able to attend Corinne’s high school graduation & celebrate with the Valedictorian!

Gayle’s later years included adding the wonderful caregivers from Family Staffing & AROSA to her long list of friends. They became like family. We are very grateful for their love & care over the past few years. Alive Hospice was a gift to us as we navigated the past few months. Their support was immeasurable. The family would also like to thank all her doctors that helped her over the years.

Gayle was predeceased by her parents: Corinne Tanksley Martin & Dr. Travis Henry Martin, husband: James Overton Watson Jr., sister: Carolyn Martin Binkley, nephew: David Binkley.

Gayle is survived by daughter :Julie Watson Parker (Daniel), granddaughter: Corinne Hayes Parker, all of Nashville, TN -sister: Madelyn Martin Smith (Clint) of Glen Allen, VA, nieces: Beth Campbell, Amanda Smith & nephew: Robert O. Binkley Jr.

There will be a graveside burial service at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Nashville on Wednesday, July 26 at 10:00 with visitation at the funeral home 11:00-1:00. A memorial service will be held at Bethlehem United Methodist Church in Franklin, TN on Saturday at 11:00 with visitation 10:00-11:00.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice or Bethlehem United Methodist Church.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mountolivet.com for the Watson family.