Joseph Francis Watt

Monterey, California

Born January 9, 1938 in Philadelphia, PA

Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Francis Watt, Retired passed away serenely on July 24, 2025. Family and friends had a chance to spend time with him and share thoughts and memories before he departed this life. Whether it was reading him excerpts from his favorite books and exchanging friendly banter on everything from the stock market to politics, to facetime calls and quiet visits with care, his last moments were filled with love. Joe enjoyed the arts (classical music, opera, and theater), gardening, the thrill of a great “thrifting “ deal, and sharing his passion for good food and wine with his many nieces and nephews. Joe was most proud of his time in the US Army.

“Joe” was born in the Kensington area of Philadelphia. He was an excellent student with an aspiration to expand his horizon beyond his neighborhood. Joe enlisted in the army two days after graduating with distinction from St. John Neumann Catholic High School in 1955.

It did not take much time for the Army to notice his potential. After scoring exceptionally high on the Officer Training School Exam, he was recommended for enrollment in West Point and graduated from this fine institution in 1961. Joe considered his time at West Point as one of the most impactful experiences of his life. After graduation, Joe had a notable Army service career. He was initially stationed in Germany, then assigned back to the states at Fort Meade and Fort Bliss which led to his tours in Vietnam. As Joe traveled the world in these early days with the Army, his family in Southern New Jersey was his home-base whenever he returned to the states. Once back in the US, the Army sent him to graduate school at American University where he earned his master’s degree. Joe finished his service at Fort Ord in CA and was selected to Command an Artillery Battalion before deciding to retire in 1979. Joe was very humble when addressing the medals he earned which included the Bronze Star with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters and a Meritorious Service Medal among many others.

Post retirement from the Army, Joe joined Equitable Life Insurance as a Management Consultant in New York City. He spent many enjoyable years traveling from coast to coast between his homes in NYC and Monterey, CA.

Joe was predeceased by both his father, Martin Edmond Watt, and mother, Elizabeth Mervine Watt, both brothers, Martin J. (Claire) Watt of Williamstown, N.J. and Robert F. Watt of Pennsville, N.J., and nephew, Robert F. Watt, Jr.

Joe is survived by sister-in-law, Anne E. Watt of Swedesboro, N.J., nieces, Elizabeth A. Ackley (Watt), Kelly C. Watt, Debra P. Watt, nephews, John M. Watt, Lawrence Watt, Timothy W. Ackley, Martin P. Watt, Michael J. Watt; great nieces, Noel A. Watt, Samantha L. Ackley; great nephews, Robert F. Watt III, Lawrence J. Watt, John P. Watt, Taylor J. (Ivy) Watt, Collin M. (Madalyn) Watt and good, caring friends and former colleagues.

Detailed Funeral Arrangements:

On Thursday, October 30, 2025, Visitation (9:30-10:00 AM) and Mass of Christian Burial (10:00-11:00 AM) will be held at St. Thomas More Cathedral, Arlington VA.

Immediately following the mass attendees will proceed directly to Arlington National Cemetery for a formal service at 1:00 PM, where Retired LTC Joeseph Francis Watt will be laid to rest with full military funeral honors and escort.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the West Point Association of Graduates Superintendent’s Fund.