Joe Watson

Joe Nathan Watson (passionately known as "Watson") was born in Meridian, Mississippi on January 19, 1939 to Annie Mae Graves and Addy Alexander, who preceded him in death. Joe was the oldest child of four who all preceded him in death, Shirley, Edna and Verbell. 


Joe graduated from West End High School in 1956. As a child, Joe spent the majority of his childhood with his maternal grandparents, Henry and Doanie Watson in Butler, Alabama. In the late 1950's, Joe came to Cleveland, Ohio to find a better life. He really didn't know what he wanted to do. First, he made his private connection with God by joining Mount Horeb Baptist Church and through this journey he later became a deacon. He owned a restaurant until it burned down. Shortly after, he was fortunate enough to find seasonal work with Horvitz Construction Company, Local 860, he was a proud union man. Working at Horvitz created a new venture for him. Joe was introduced to cement and building bridges. He mastered the process while working on many Cleveland bridges and thruways (I-90, Route 2, I-71 and I-77). Joe became passionate about his work and began a successful side business laying concrete. Joe continued his employment with Horvitz (now National Construction Company) for over forty years, retiring as Head Foreman in 1998.


After retirement, Joe became an avid landscaper. His meticulous style for growing and cutting grass claimed the yards of many. Joe was a great storyteller, he loved sharing his life experiences and family memories.


Joe has always been a "busy body". His favorite most cherished activity was bowling. He connected with many bowling alleys in Cleveland until his health started to decline. He was also an avid Cleveland sports fan. Back in the day you could find Joe watching Jim Brown down at the Cleveland Browns stadium. You could also see him wearing various caps, shirts to represent the Cleveland Guardians and Cavaliers.


Joe was a great friend to so many. He encouraged young men while working in construction. He also was a mentor to countless children in his various communities. He would help various neighbors with home maintenance projects, help to care for the elderly neighbors and constantly gave treats to any kid that asked. 


Joe peacefully passed away on November 6, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Dessie, children: Florine (James Jr) Harris, Lynette Watson (deceased), Monica Y. (Arnold) Matthews, Dr. Jocelyn (Tony (deceased)) Watson-Mason and devoted niece/daughter Etoshia Jones. Joe has six grandchildren, Christopher Watson, Ashley McCray, Asja Matthews, Arnold Matthews Jr, James Harris III and Artie Harris. Twelve great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren and a host of other family and friends to cherish his memory.