Jerry Watson, 74, of New Caney, went to be with his Lord Tuesday, February 21, 2017. He was born Monday, October 12, 1942 to Caris and Wilmoth Watson. Jerry is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Vera Watson; brothers, Bob, Donald and Milton; sisters Nada and Rebecca. He is survived by his wife, Linda Allen Watson; children, Robin Rice and husband Tim, Tim Watson and wife Mary; grandchildren, Ashley, Amy, Macy, Taylor and Heidi; great-grandchildren, Zachary, Elijah, Benjamin, Samuel and Gwendolyn; siblings, Billy Watson and wife Reba, Elna Brown and husband Wallace; and a host of other family members and friends.

Jerry grew up in Mounds, a small town in Southern Illinois. He was a high school basketball star, starting guard for the Mounds Railroaders. His nickname was “Rabbit” due to his speed. Jerry was named Southern Illinois Player of the Year during his senior year in high school. He was offered a scholarship to LSU. But, Jerry decided to take a different road when he married Marsha Ryan and started a family. They moved to Granite City, IL and Jerry started a career at Burkhart Randall, a division of Textron. He rose to the position of chief chemist. He worked there for over 20 years and was nicknamed by his staff as “Super Chief.” After Jerry and Marsha split up, he decided to move to Texas for a fresh start. Several years later, Jerry married Vera Lyerla. Jerry started another long career at Northeast Medical Center Hospital for over 20 years. After only 3 months at NEMCH, Jerry was named the Employee of the Month. Jerry worked in Respiratory Therapy and Central Supply departments, rising to the position of manager. Jerry and Vera had many good years here in Texas, until Vera passed away in 2004. Jerry was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006, but was able to beat it. Jerry met Linda Allen who has been his special friend for over 10 years and most recently, his caregiver. Linda’s family became like family for Jerry. Jerry and Linda were recently married. Jerry was known for his sense of humor and kindness towards others. Jerry will be missed by those he loved.

A visitation will be Saturday, February 25, 2017 at Rosewood Funeral Home in Porter, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A Funeral Service will be 12:00 PM Saturday, February 25, 2017 at Rosewood Funeral Home in Porter. Interment will follow at Rosewood Memorial Park North, in Porter, Texas.