Della Florence (Goddard) Watson

Della Florence Watson, 100, of Penn Township, passed away June 6, 2023, at her home.  She was born June 29, 1922, daughter of the late Leo W. Goddard and Anna Louisa Meyer in Moraga, California.  In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, James D. Watson and a daughter, Judy Del Chavez, as well as all four of her siblings.

Della had a long, wonderful, and interesting life.  She was as tough as they come, but ever so sweet. Della met and married the love of her life, Jamie, while they both worked for the State of California, Bureau of Equalization.  Della was a devoted wife and mother.  Of her three children, her daughter contracted Polio at the tender age of 18 months and her youngest son was brain damaged at birth.  None of these challenges stopped her.  She devoted her life to her children, fighting fiercely to ensure that they had all of the opportunities they deserved to live their best lives.  She enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling, red wine, and her family.  Widowed for 48 years, she remained in love with her husband, stating “once you’ve had the best, you can’t replace him”.  She took care of her dependent son, who lived with her for 66 years.  A remarkable woman who lived through many stories that most of us only read about, such as the Great Depression, WWII, her first Presidential vote for FDR, and all things political since.  A wonderful historian and conversationalist, she was a joy to spend time with. 

Della is survived by two sons, David (Kimberly) Watson and Bruce Watson; four grandchildren, Dane (Grace) Watson, Danielle (Katie) Watson, Derek (Ellie) Watson and Diana (Tom) Kanyarusoke; five greatgrandchildren, Ella, Luke, Ethan, Drake and Rhys; numerous nieces and nephews.  At Della’s request, there will be no public visitation or services.  If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in dedication to her husband James D. Watson.  For online condolences, please visit www.hartfuneralhomeinc.com

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