Obituary of Jean Watson

Jean Margaret Watson December 9, 1915 - July 11, 2011 Jean passed away peacefully at home, in her 96th year, surrounded by family and friends. Much loved daughter of the late Morley and Minnie Watson. Jean had a lifelong career in education, from the time she graduated from teachers college until she retired in 1980, earning her B.A. in 1952 from St. Michael's College, U of T. First as an elementary teacher and later a speech therapist in the Special Education Department, she touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to be her students, and cherished her time with them and with her peers. Jean was deeply engaged in community life, volunteering with Meals on Wheels and the U.C.W at Eglinton United Church, where she became president. She was also an active member of the University Women's Club, hosting meetings of the World Affairs Group as recently as this spring. Jean was a true joy and inspiration, always interested in the lives of those around her and supportive of their endeavours, and in turn much beloved by all those who knew her. Friends of Jean's were friends for life, and as a longtime resident of Leaside, she nurtured close ties within her neighbourhood. She had a deep affection for animals, an interest in travel, and a love of reading. Jean was a dear friend to the late Helena "Peggy" Searle; she will be deeply missed by her multitude of cousins, friends, and neighbours. Heartfelt thanks to her dedicated caregivers and therapists. The family will receive friends at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME - A.W. MILES CHAPEL, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville Avenue) from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 14th. Funeral service will be held in the chapel on Friday, July 15th at 11:00 a.m., with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the C.N.I.B. Books for Children, 1929 Bayview Avenue, Toronto M4G 3E8 or the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 16586 Woodbine Avenue, RR #3, Newmarket L3Y 4W1. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.