Van had previously spent thirty years as an educator at the high school and university levels. With her arrival in Pensacola she was able to begin her second joyous life as a full time unemployed worker. Her interests and undertakings were numerous, varied, and boundless; civic organizations, education organizations, charity work, extensive international travel, collecting functional quality antiques, and always improving her unique and beautiful home.
Other than her dear husband and children, Van's first love was horticulture. Her favorite was her splendid bonsai creations.
Van is survived by her sister, Thelma; her daughter, Kendra; and her son, Gary. Consistent with her devotion to education, and her Spiritual beliefs, she donated her body to the University of South Alabama School of Medicine.
Any gifts in memory of Isabel "Van" Watson may be presented to the Pensacola Gulf Coast Bonsai Society.
Van Watson will be long missed and fondly remembered.
