Mary Francis Watson

Mary Francis Watson, 99 of the Ewing Community in Fleming County, Kentucky, passed away peacefully Saturday, April 19, 2025. She was residing in the Robertson County Health Care Facility in Mt. Olivet, Kentucky. 

She was born August 17, 1925, in Brocton, Illinois, the daughter of the late James W. Benton and Mary E. Benton.

Mary is leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and a life well lived. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to many. A lifelong lover of earth who found deep joy in gardening. During her time at the Ashland Terrace, she was recognized as the resident gardener. Her green thumb extended beyond the garden and into the kitchen, always trying to find ways to use her freshly grown herbs in her cooking.

From her kitchen to the card table, Mary enjoyed playing cards and loved gin rummy. Mary was also a lifelong lover of books, she devoured stories and knowledge- you would always find a book close by her. Mary loved her family!! Her happiest moments were those spend surrounded by her children, and their children. Mary's life was full and vibrant- a blend of beauty, intellect and heart. She will be dearly missed, fondly remembered and always celebrated. 

Mary was preceded in death by her husband Estel Watson of 38 years; her stepsons, Duke Watson, Larry Watson, Ron Watson, and one stepdaughter, Caroline Bumbales. Mary was also preceded in death by her six brothers, Elmo, Bob, James, Walter, Darold and Charles Benton.

Survivors include one brother, Madison Benton of Paris, Illinois; five daughters, Patti O'Brien (Pat) of San Antonio Texas, Mary Baghdadi (Sal) of Longwood Florida, Marilyn Bennett of Lowell, Indiana, Marie E. Easter (Mike) Benton of Harbor, Michigan, and Marie G. Hernandez (Ralph) of Valparaiso, Indiana; five sons, Jim Watson (Terisa) of Amarillo, Texas, Rick Watson of Crown Point, Indiana, Mike Watson of Ewing, Kentucky, John Watson (Beth) of Hendersonville, Tennessee, and Wayne Watson (Kathy) of Jefferson, Texas. One special friend, Jerry Lee of Ewing, Kentucky. And was loved by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great, great grandchildren.

Private family service and burial will be in the Goddard Cemetery in Fleming County, where she will be laid to rest next to her husband.

Contributions in Mary's memory may be made to the Maysville Hospice of Hope in Maysville, Kentucky, in recognition of the compassionate care they provide to so many families.

All arrangements for Mary Francis Watson and family are under the care and direction of the Price Brothers Funeral Home, 5197 Elizaville Road, Ewing, Kentucky 41039.