Jo Ellen Watson

Jo Ellen Watson, 70, Passed away February 22, 2018 at home with her husband after succumbing to Primary Progressive Aphasia dementia. She was born in Huntington, West Virginia on July 23, 1947. She was preceded in death by her parents, James William and Nell Marie Moulton. She graduated from Marshall University in Huntington West Virginia with a bachelors in Early Childhood Education & Teaching and later with her Master’s Degree from Old Dominion University. She retired in 1999 after 30 years teaching in the Virginia Beach Public Schools. She was a long time faithful member of Community United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach where she was active in many aspects of church life including the Martha Circle, United Methodist Women, Joyful Noise Hand Bell Choir and as an usher. She was the former Director of the Virginia Tea Society and was a former member of the Fun Time Cloggers. Anyone that met her had found a caring friend and was fortunate to have her joyful spirit in their lives. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Chris Watson; sister Jeanne Bennett and husband David, nephew J. Matthew Jameson and his wife Kelly of Pennsylvania; niece Leigh Anne Bernal, husband Jon and great nephew Truman of Utah; step nephew Chris Bennett of Alabama; great step niece Libbi Bennett; step niece Dana Bennett, great step niece Elaina Griffith; and great step nephew Alex Griffith of North Carolina. Very special thanks to Maddie, Ali, Melissa, Doris, Tracy and Jane for their love, care and genuine compassion. We were especially lucky to have them in her life. Also, to Genesis Rehab Services for her excellent therapy. In addition, we are grateful to Heartland Hospice Services for their support, counsel and guidance. The family will welcome friends for visitation Thursday March 1st from 6 until 8 PM at Smith & Williams Funeral Home Kempsville Chapel, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach. A Celebration of Life Service will be held March 11th at 2 PM in Community United Methodist Church, 1072 Old Kempsville Road, Virginia Beach with a reception to follow in the church social hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Untamed Spirit Therapeutic Riding & Educational Program, 3943 Dawley Road, Virginia Beach VA 23457, Community United Methodist Church, 1072 Old Kempsville Road, Virginia Beach VA 23464 or to a charity of your choice.