John was a longtime resident of Calera, Birmingham, and Bluff Park, Alabama. He graduated from the University of Alabama Birmingham in 1981 with a degree in Biomedical Technology and worked as a biomedical technician at East End Hospital and Medical Center East, where he eventually retired.
John was a dedicated servant of the Lord, serving as a deacon and elder at Birmingham Community Deaf Church. He also held similar roles at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church, McElwain Baptist Church, and Brook Highland Baptist Church, touching countless lives with his faith and leadership.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Sally Watson; four sisters, Doris, Lucille, Barbara, and Catherine; and two brothers, Fred and Robert.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Maye; three children, Molly Smith (Robert), Joel Watson (Regina), and Mark Watson (Susan); four grandchildren, Whitney Watson, Dakota Smith (Bethany), Shayleigh Smith, and Danielle Stamps; and four great-grandchildren, Penelope Smith, Cooper Abercrombie, Caden Rogers, and Theodore Smith.
A visitation will be held at Elmwood Chapel on April 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with a graveside service to follow. Stan Stepleton will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Birmingham Community Deaf Church or your favorite charity in John’s honor.
