Thompson Funeral ChapelFrancis Patrick Watson
Francis Patrick Watson of Avondale, AZ passed away March 2, 2023 at the age of 76. He was born January 13, 1947 in Homestead, Pennsylvania to Frank and Elva (nee Gibson) Watson. He was preceded in death by both parents and his brother Keith.
Francis was raised in Homestead and graduated from West Mifflin North High School in 1964. In 1966, he joined the United States Army and served in Korea. He married Connie Ayers in 1972 and together they raised their sons Eric and Kevin. The family relocated to Arizona in September 1981, where he worked as a Computer Programmer and IT Director for many years.
Francis was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He had a huge heart and wanted to take care of those around them. Family was always first to him. His memory will live on in our hearts and will be celebrated every day.
Francis is survived by his wife of 51 years, Connie Watson; sons, Eric (Barbara) and Kevin (Jennifer) Watson; sister, Eileen Kardell; brother, Michael Watson and his five beloved grandchildren, Madalyn, Kevin II, Victoria, Stella Mae & Gretchyn.
A visitation will begin at 10:30AM on Sunday, April 2 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. A memorial service will begin at 11am.
My sweet father in law. Life will never be the same without you! Thank you for letting me be part of your life and family ❤️
Fran will always be remembered as a kind and gentle man, with a heart full of gold. Rest in peace, Fran. You were loved and will be missed by all. God Bless.
When he was in the district, Fran’s happy disposition always made for a nice experience anytime I had to reach out to him. My condolences to the Watson Family.
I will miss you so much Fran! Daily walks to the Bistro, business lunches at Denny’s, visits to schools. Edupoint Conferences, and finally, Spring Training games. 🙂
I will always remember you my friend.
Sadly,
Sarah Mahoney
Fran was a wonderful friend and colleague. The news is so shocking and family will be in my prayers.
Fran was always so great to be around. His sunny disposition made interactions with him fun and enlightening.
My condolences to the Watson family. What a nice person. Always helpful, patient and kind. Rest in peace sir.
Connie, I’m so sorry to hear about Fran-O. He will be missed. Fran-O you have gone to meet your maker and may he approve you.
Eric and Kevin, Fran always had some wonderful stories about you two.
Frano!! You were always so kind and helpful. Your smile…oh boy! May you rest in peace. My condolences to the Watson family.
Thankful to have known Fran during his years in Cartwright when I worked as an administrator. It’s not everyday that you meet someone who is so helpful, positive, and kind. I appreciated his wisdom and experience as it pertained to tech support. Fran will be missed. Praying for comfort for his family.
Thank you for always being so kind and helpful anytime myself or others called. You were truly a bright light in the Cartwright family. You will be missed.
I send my condolences to the Watson Family. Mr. Fran will be missed! Thank you Fran for being our advocate- The Cartwright School Secretaries, now Coordinators.
Mr Fran was such a nice and funny person!
There are so many memories that I have of Fran over the years. So many make me laugh even today. I remember saying to him, “Fran tell me that in English… I don’t speak “Franian”.” He would laugh and then try and reexplain in more simple terms what he was trying to get me to understand. Thank you for all of your lessons both about work and about life. I appreciate and treasure them. Connie – my you feel the love through our warm thoughts and comfort through the many prayers.
Fran was always patient, even when I asked the same question multiple times! His easy smile and sparkle in his eyes made him fun to work with! Such a great person!
Fran is a special and kind soul.
Thank you for your patience.
You made my transition to the district so easy.
May your spirit rest easy friend.
Dear ones, may God be with you during this difficult time. Fran was such a light in dark times at Cartwright. I will always treasure his friendship and joy. My deepest condolences. May God surround you with His love and peace.
My condolences to the family may God grant you strength during this time.
Connie, I just remember seeing you and Fran in December at Cracker Barrel. I’m In shock. My deepest condolences to you and your wonderful family my friend. Fran, thank you so much for always being so patient and kind answering my multiply questions. You were so funny; your pleasant smile made my day! You were loved and will be missed. Connie, may God surround you and the family with strength and peace. ❤️
Condolences to the family. You have my deepest sympathy. Wishing you piece, comfort and courage at this time of sorrow. My heart goes out to the family at this difficult time.
My deepest condolences to the family. Fran was always so nice and helpful to me. He will be greatly missed, and my heart goes out to you during this difficult time.
My Condolences to the family! Fran was my lunch buddy at Cartwright School District. I had the pleasure of working with him in my dept. He will surely be missed.