Nita Watson

Nita Jean Hoyle Watson, age 90, a beloved figure of Hillsboro, sadly left our world on September 6, 2024, after a life richly lived in service and kindness. She was a hardworking, devoted Christian who touched the lives of everyone who knew her. Nita owned and operated a hardware store for over 40 years, where her warmth and humor made her a cherished figure in the community. Customers who walked through her store's doors quickly became lifelong friends, charmed by her wit and kindness.

Nita was born on January 11, 1934, to Hubert and Grace of Abbott. She graduated from Abbott High School, where she built lasting friendships, and developed a passion for sports including basketball, softball and cheerleading. At the age of 20, Nita married Kenneth Wayne Watson of Abbott and together they built a beautiful family and started numerous successful businesses in the Hillsboro community.

In her younger years, Nita had a love for horseback riding, a passion that stayed with her throughout her life. Later, she found joy in painting and treasured the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family was her pride and joy, and her relationships with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were among the most important in her life.

Known for her playful spirit, Nita had a knack for pestering those she cared about, always with a smile and a laugh. She could brighten any room simply by walking into it. Nita’s grandsons quickly learned to watch out for the smack of her backhand. Her love for the Dallas Cowboys was well-known, and Sundays were often spent yelling at the television cheering them on with friends and family – win or lose.

Her strong work ethic, loving nature, and boundless energy will be missed by all who knew her. Nita’s faith in God was the foundation of her life, and she was a devoted member of Hillsboro Church of Christ.

Nita was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. Nita was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth Watson; parents, Hubert and Grace Hoyle; and siblings Wendell Hoyle, Wanda Hoyle Crowell and Donna Hoyle Smith.

She is survived by her longtime boyfriend, Kenneth Pyron; brother Larry Hoyle and wife Emily; sons Kevin Watson and Rodney Watson; daughter Terrilyn Watson Wardlow and husband Guy; grandsons Zach Miller and wife Karen, Kenny Watson and wife Annie, Davis Watson and wife Harlie; and great-granddaughters Kenna, Mila and McKenlie.

In remembrance, a visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, from 6-8 pm at Marshall and Marshall Funeral Directors in Hillsboro, and the graveside service will be at 10 am on Wednesday, September 11, 2024,at the Peoria Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Nita’s name, in honor of Brody Nelson, to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.