Carolyn Jo Watson

Carolyn Watson, 78, passed away at her home in Tampa, Florida on the morning of August 17, 2025. Carolyn was born on September 14, 1946, in Hillsdale, Michigan to George and Fern McDowell. She received her bachelor’s degree from Blue Mountain College in Mississippi and her master’s at St. Leo University.

For over thirty years, Carolyn devoted herself to teaching Language Arts, inspiring generations of students with her electric passion for literature and drama. She believed in every student and fostered relationships with colleagues and students that continued into future years. Whether guiding reluctant readers to their first favorite book or whistling in the hallways, Carolyn’s energy, creativity, and dedication left an indelible mark on everyone she met. She was a fast favorite among reluctant readers, and it was widely understood: if you had Mrs. Watson, you hit the teacher jackpot.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Douglas, and two beloved rottweilers, Ginny and Ginger. She will be remembered with love by family and friends, including her companion Rick Libka; her daughter Stephanie Gresham and son-in-law Jed Gresham; and her grandchildren Charlie, Sam, and Tommy. There is also The Cat, infamous for interrupting phone calls and perhaps a suspect in crimes of destruction of property.

The family is holding a private memorial in her garden. Instead of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the ASPCA to honor Carolyn’s love for animals.

“Are you sure That we are awake? It seems to me That yet we sleep, we dream”

― William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

“Oodles of light what a beautiful sight

Both of God's eyes are shining tonight”

― John Prine