Janie Lois Watson

Janie Lois Ferguson Watson b. February 7, 1948 – d. October 17, 2020

Janie was born February 7, 1948, in Oakland, CA, the second child of James Jeffro Ferguson, Sr. and Verla Geneva Blake. Janie was taught how to sew when she was young and became an accomplished tailor as she grew to adulthood. After graduating from Harry Ells High School in Richmond, CA in 1966, Janie went to work in the clothing industry. A few years later she met Clarence Watson, whom she loved dearly, and they were married May 24, 1969.   From this union they had (2) children – Kimberly and Derek Watson. Their lives together took on greater meaning as Janie and Clarence dedicated their lives to Jehovah and were baptized March 2, 1975 in Fremont, CA.

As they settled into family life that now included a “world-wide spiritual brotherhood” she shared regularly in the ministry (preaching) the good news of Jehovah’s Kingdom (Mt. 24:14) and the marvelous blessings in store for mankind. The Bible says ‘a good name in better than fine oil’ (Eccl. 7:1), so for over 45 years, Jehovah’s word continued to be a ‘lamp to her foot and a light for her path’ (119:105).

Janie’s pleasant spirit and infectious smile endeared her to many. Her willingness to share of herself with her spiritual brothers and sisters, including the older ones in the congregation and the many opportunities she gave of herself, by making wedding dresses and other garments for those in the congregation. As a result, the bond of love and friendship grew with so many. (Ro. Chap. 16)

Janie’s strong hope in the resurrection (Jo. 5:28-29; Acts 24:15) provided her with the strength to deal with her continual health issues, which began to worsen over time.  Finally, in the last hours, she knew that she was in Jehovah’s memory and awaiting the fulfillment of (Rev. 21:3-4) where death and suffering will be no more.

The Watson family would like to acknowledge and thank the congregation and the whole association of brothers for their prayers and the many expressions of sympathy and support. Janie was loved by so many, however, to honor Janie’s wishes to not have a memorial, the family have prepared this obituary in her memory. The family mourning Janie’s passing includes her husband of 51 years, Clarence Watson; daughter Kimberly Watson; son Derek Watson; granddaughter Kimari Watson; Uncle Curtis N. Blake; Aunt Margret Blake; sister Glenda Cutright; brother James Ferguson; sister-in-law Marcia Ferguson; brother Marcus Ferguson; sister Patricia Ferguson. Also nephews/nieces Robin Cutright & Nicole Cutright (wife); Matthew Ferguson; Eliza Ferguson; Paris Nicole Ferguson; Jason Ferguson; Ariel Ferguson; Tiffany Fuller & Alvin Clark Duncan, Jr. Additionally (7) great nephew/nieces. Janie was preceded in death by her parents James Jeffro Ferguson, Sr. & Verla Geneva Ferguson; sister Mona Williams; sister Doralin Williams; sister Cassandra Perrin; nieces Iyana Cutright & Ashley Fuller.