Tom’s first wife was named Tomasine Watson. Two children were born to their marriage; Chesai (Renae) Watson and Troy Watson.
His second wife was Brenda Watson. Brenda gave birth to their son Andre. Tom also raised Brenda’s daughter Shawn as his own.
Tom was a spiritual man who always blessed his food before meals. He was baptized at an early age and regularly attended church with his mother, as a child.
Thomas James Watson, also known as “Tom”, Uncle Tom and Poppa T. He was born
September 24th, 1939 in Fairfield, Alabama, to Cecil James Watson and Dorothy Watson.
Tom was an intelligent, charismatic and fascinating man who enjoyed business, travel and a “good” party.
He graduated from Cass Technical High School in 1957 with honors. Shortly after he enlisted in the United States Air Force in October, 1962. He took pride in his years of service, and never missed a Veteran’s Day toast at the neighborhood Applebee’s. He always loved telling a story or two about his glorious service days, and sharing laughs with his best friends/brother Cecil and brother from “another mother “, Bill Clay.
Tom was employed at Michigan Bell in Detroit, and later transferred to Pacific Bell in sunny California, where he retired for the first time, from his position as an Engineering Manager.
One of his many accomplishments was becoming president of C.I.T.I.ES social club. He also acquired a job at American Airlines to continue his love of travel. He later retired a second time.
He met and married then Dorothy Smith, who quickly became travel companions to places like Paris, Rome, cruising, China and Hong Kong, where they became engaged.
He also enjoyed traveling to different states to Dorothy’s family’s annual birthday parties with festive themes.
Much of his time over the years, especially since retirement, was spent with his closest friends/brothers Tony Kuykendall and Terry Gibson, hanging out at the local Chili’s.
Thomas James Watson leaves behind to cherish his memories;
Wife - Dorothy J Watson of almost 24 years
Brother - Cecil J Watson, Pomona, CA
Sister - Sharon “Neccie” Marzett, Nacomb Township, MI
Sister - Nancy Carolyn Dobbins, who preceded him in Heaven
4 children –
Cheasi (Shawn) Tillery, Las Vegas, NV
Troy (Anitra) Watson, Southfield, MI
Shawn (Noel) Garcia, Chicago, IL
Andre L. Watson, Chicago, IL
11 Grandchildren
3 Great Grandchildren
8 Nieces
7 Nephews
Life could never be complete without the wonderful friendship of his neighbors, the companionship of his many friends and his family in Michigan, Alabama and California. We would like to extend a sincere thank you to Dorothy’s family for all the love and kindness you had for our dad.
A funeral service for Thomas will be held Wednesday, February 7, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Rose Hills Memorial Park - Memorial Chapel, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California 90601. Following the funeral service will be a reception from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Rose Hills Memorial Park - GardenView Reception, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California 90601.
Thomas will be laid to rest in Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California 90601; Mariposa Terrace; Gate: 1, Section: 4, Lot: 2916, Grave: 1.
