Patsy "Patsy Watson" Watson

Mary Jane “Patsy” Watson, 86, of Hillsboro passed away Friday, August 26, 2011, in Waco. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, August 29, 2011, at First Baptist Church in Hillsboro with Rev. Andrew McClain officiating. Burial will follow at Ridge Park Cemetery in Hillsboro. Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. Sunday, August 28, at Marshall & Marshall Funeral Directors in Hillsboro.

Mary Jane Watson was born October 19, 1924 to James and Effie Hensley in Hill County, as the fifth of five siblings. Mary Jane was married to Larry Watson on July 11, 1944 in Hillsboro, where the couple settled and remained for the next 60 years, not spending more than a few nights apart, until his death in 2004. Mary Jane and Larry were blessed with one daughter, Judy, in 1946, one son-in-law, Scott, in 1971, and one grandchild, Andrew in 1978. Mary Jane was also blessed with a granddaughter-in-law, Kara, and a great-grandson, Carter.

Known to family and friends as “Patsy,” her particular gifts from God were musical ability and sense of devotion. Through these gifts, Patsy ministered to thousands of grieving families over a 45 year career as organist at Marshall and Marshall Funeral Directors. Though she rendered her services out of view, it was known when “Patsy was playing,” for her special touch of the keys was as unmistakable as it was comforting.

Patsy demonstrated her signature dedication through involvement in a number of activities at First Baptist Church of Hillsboro, where she served for more than six decades. Whether accompanying in worship service, attending Sunday School, singing in the choir, or preparing meals for fellow members, Patsy was at the church whenever there was a need to be met.

And to her family she brought the same devotion. Patsy (dubbed “Munner” by her toddler grandson) was the family’s prayer warrior in the midst of any circumstances; lifting up in times of trial, rejoicing in times of celebration, and ever thanking in all seasons.

Though music and service to the church have been passed to successive generations, it is Patsy’s legacy of prayer that has been most deeply embedded in the hearts of those who love her.

Patsy was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Larry Watson on March 20, 2004; three brothers, Willard, Harold, and Lynn Hensley; and one sister, Maurine Dossey.

Memorials may be made to the Wesley Woods Alzheimer’s Care Center, 1700 Woodgate Dr., Waco, TX 76712 or Providence Hospice, 4830 Lakewood Dr. Suite 2, Waco, TX 76710.

Visitation

Sunday August 28, 2011 , 4:00 - 6:00 P.M. at Marshall & Marshall Funeral Directors

Funeral Service

Monday August 29, 2011 , 10:00 A.M. at First Baptist Church