Donna Rae Watson
Donna Rae Watson
Donna Rae Watson
October 30, 1935 – June 27, 2018
Albia, Iowa | Age 82
Donna Rae Watson, age 82, of Albia, passed away peacefully at her home under the care of Care Initiatives Hospice surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on October 30, 1935 to Joseph and Geneva (Bates) Thomas in Hiteman, Iowa.
Donna grew up and attended the Albia High School, graduating with the Class of 1954.
She was united in marriage to Matt Watson on June 29, 1952 in Albia, Iowa. To this union 2 children were born, Michelle and Cameron.
Donna was a homemaker for most of her life while raising her children. She also helped with secretary work for her husband’s business, Watson’s Gas Company, where she started a small book store. She later opened a consignment store that was located on the square in Albia for many years, until she started the Coal Miners Daughter Antique Shop.
Donna enjoyed reading, tending to her flower garden, bird watching, sewing, making quilts and antiquing. Above all else, she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.
Donna is survived by her husband of almost 66 years, Matt Watson of Albia; a daughter, Dawn “Michelle” (& Roy) Hutcheon of Kansas City, MO; a son, Cameron (& Tamie) Watson of Albia; her grandchildren: Nathan (& Deborah) Hutcheon of Greenville, S.C; Ariel Hutcheon of Virginia Beach, VA; Hunter Watson (& Melissa Emerson) of Albia and Caitlyn Watson (& Curtis James) of Albia; her brothers: Howard (& Lois) Thomas of Hiteman and Robert (& Romanita) Thomas of Lovilia; and her sisters: Mimi (& John) Tharp of Scotts Bluff, NE and Kitty (& Buddy) Stafford of Milton, FL.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Geneva; and two sisters, Gladyth VanDolah and Jeanne Frye.
As was Donna’s wish, her body has been cremated and a private family service will be held at a later date.
Condolences to the family may be left online at www.tharpfh.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Donna Rae Watson please visit the Tharp Funeral Home Sympathy Store.
