Jessie Watson

Service

Monday, November 17, 2025| Wake: 10:30 a.m. |Service: 11:30 a.m.

Howell Funeral Home| 10220 Guilford Road| Jessup, Maryland 20794

Interment

Crownsville Veterans Cemetery| 1122 Sunrise Beach Road| Crownsville, Maryland 21032

Time: 1:45 p.m.

In Loving Memory of Jesse “PoJess” Watson

February 17, 1936 – October 30, 2025

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Obituary

Jesse Watson, affectionately known as “PoJess,” passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on October 30, 2025, in Columbia, Maryland. Born on February 17, 1936, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, Jesse was the sixth of ten children born to Henry and Douglas (Williams) Watson. In 1945, the family moved to Kansas City, Kansas, where Jesse graduated from Washington High School. After graduation, he proudly joined the U.S. Army, serving two tours of duty—first as an 18-year-old recruit and later as a reservist in his 30s.On September 6, 1958, Jesse married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Lee Williams, and together they shared 67 beautiful years of marriage. Their union was blessed with three children: Jesse Watson, Jr., Gloria Jenise Watson, and the late Rodney Louis Watson.

In 1974, the family relocated to Columbia, Maryland, where Jesse enjoyed a rewarding career with the United States Postal Service. Jesse had a lifelong passion for sports and friendly competition. He loved watching football and basketball, attending racecar events, and participating in bowling and golf tournaments. A skilled bowler, he earned gold and silver medals in the Senior Olympics. He also had a deep appreciation for classic cars and all things mechanical—spending countless hours rebuilding engines, working with his hands, and riding motorcycles. Together, Jesse and Dorothy shared many adventures, from attending blues concerts to enjoying time on the water. He was the proud captain of his boat, Jess Right, and a member of the Neptune Yacht Club.

Jesse was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son, Rodney Louis Watson; three sisters, Pauline Watson, Mable Washington, and Erma Jean Daniels; and four brothers, Will Henry Watson, Nathaniel Watson, Sydney Watson, and Samuel Hill.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 67 years, Dorothy Lee Watson; his son, Jesse Watson, Jr. (Debra); his daughter, Gloria Jenise Watson; two loving sisters, Geraldine Cathy (Robert) and Mary Davis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. Jesse will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and generous spirit—a man devoted to his family, his craft, and his community.

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Celebration of Life

Date: Monday, November 17, 2025Location: Howell Funeral Home, 10220 Guilford Road, Jessup, MD Visitation: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Service: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Interment: Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Crownsville, MD

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23