Louise Pichard Watson

Louise was born in Tallahassee on April 6, 1931, the second of eight children born to Eugene Douglas and Margaret (Mickler) Pichard. She graduated from Leon High School in 1949 where she took bookkeeping and shorthand classes and played varsity basketball. On April 22,1950 she married the love of her life, Bidwell “Beetle” Watson.

A devoted mother and dedicated working woman, Louise built a career while raising her six sons. She began her working life at Borden Dairy before joining the State of Florida, where she worked for the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and later the Department of Administration. She retired in 1992 after 23 years of state service. Even in retirement, Louise continued serving her community as a poll worker with the Leon County Supervisor of Elections. In recognition of her many years of service, she received an award in 2014.

Louise was also a devout Catholic and a lifelong parishioner of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she generously gave her time and service to her church community as a member of Saint Anne’s Circle, the Altar Society, and the Adoration program.

Above all else, Louise treasured her role as a mother. Her six sons were the center of her life, and she was a loving, supportive, and devoted mother to them throughout the years. She was known for her intelligence, kindness, and genuine care for everyone she met. Louise was a special lady who was deeply loved by her family and by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Louise was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Margaret Pichard; her husband Bidwell "Beetle" Watson, three sisters and one brother; and her sons, Carl Watson and Ronnie Watson.

She is survived by her sons, Gene (Kathy) Watson, Andy (Karen) Watson, Dennis (Dee) Watson, and Tim Watson; 12 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; her sisters, Jackie Fulford and Debbie (Juan) Key; and her brother, Charlie (Apriell) Pichard. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory. Her absence will leave a space that can never truly be filled, but the love she gave her family will remain with them for generations to come.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on October 1, 2026, at Culley’s MeadowWood Funeral Home, 700 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blessed Sacrament Church or Big Bend Hospice.