Betty Jean (Barnes) Watson

Betty Jean Watson, born on February 25, 1933, in Piedmont, Missouri, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on July 13, 2024, in St. Petersburg, Florida. 

Betty was renowned for her compassionate nature and readiness to assist anyone in need. Her life was marked by her varied careers and hobbies. As a private pilot, she cherished flying to Springfield for lunch with friends. Her professional journey included dedicated years as a Licensed Practical Nurse and a real estate agent, helping many find their dream homes. Betty was also a committed volunteer, notably with the Ronald McDonald House auctions, and she took great joy in her exceptional cooking skills, especially her legendary apple pies.

Family was the cornerstone of Betty's life. She relished spending time at the lake house, where she enjoyed the company of her family and friends, as well as taking vacations in Texas by the beach.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Dianna (Patti) Wade of St. Petersburg, Florida; son, Eric Smith of Las Vegas, Nevada; stepdaughter, Judy (Joe) Barber; granddaughter, Ericka (Cody) McPherson; grandsons, Brian Smith and Kyle (Katie) Smith; step-granddaughters, Melissa (John) Grigg, Kristine (Brad) Whetzel, Stacy (Greg) Fite, and Jennifer (Jeff) Benner; step-grandson, Joshua (Veronica) Wade; four step-great-granddaughters; five step-great-grandsons; two step-great-great-grandsons; and one step-great-great-granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Watson of Wood River, Illinois; stepson, John Dudley Watson; and step-granddaughter, Andrea Watson.

Visitation will be held from 4 pm to 6 pm on July 30, at Marks Mortuary in Wood River.

A graveside service will follow at 11:15 am on July 31 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's Association at act.alz.org or to the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

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