Elaine Watson

Elaine Ellis Watson, 78, of Fort Smith passed away early in the morning of January 3, 2022 from complications with her mechanical heart valve and C.R.E.S.T. syndrome. Born on her family’s farm in Marlette, Michigan in 1943, Elaine was the daughter of a dairy farmer and a rural classroom teacher. Farm life was an integral part of her early years along with a constant affiliation to the local 4H Clubs and International Farm Youth Exchange. She graduated valedictorian of her high school class and went on to excel at Michigan State University (Go Spartans!). Later, she received her master’s degree from the University of Arkansas (Go Hogs, WPS!) as a Reading Specialist. Elaine began her 38-year teaching career at Echols Elementary School in Fort Smith in 1969 and continued a legacy of education and literacy for the children of Fort Smith School District at Euper Lane Elementary, Trusty Elementary, the FRAME program, and the North Muskegon, Michigan School District.

Elaine’s personal interests varied greatly from a globe-trotting world traveler, playing bridge, knitting, intricate home décor and collectibles, and the many activities and functions of First Presbyterian Church.

While on a national 4H trip to Washington, D.C., Elaine met her future husband, Bill. They were married for 31 years prior to his passing in 1998 and have two wonderful sons, Craig and Mark. She has been the matriarch of the family and a dedicated grandmother and great-grandmother to five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Fort Smith. A visitation with the family will be held on Friday, January 7, 2022 at noon at Edwards Funeral Home followed by a memorial service at First Presbyterian Church at 116 N. 12th Street in Fort Smith at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the music program of First Presbyterian Church of Fort Smith and/or the Friends of Fort Smith Library.