Jean Irene Watson (Fleming), 78, died peacefully on Saturday, December 23, 2017, while visiting her family in Bath, Maine for the Christmas holidays.

The first of four daughters born to Clinton and Ruth Fleming on October 1, 1939, Jean lived a full and blessed life. She graduated from Morse High School in 1957 and later faithfully volunteered and served the Morse High School Alumni Association, one of the most active high school alumni associations in the country.

In 1959, Jean married William Hudson, Senior Chief of the US Navy. For the last 37 years, Jean has been the beloved wife of Peter Watson. Peter has been her loving and devoted husband and “Papa” to their precious extended family.

Jean was one to roll up her sleeves, do what needed to be done and, in the process, bring much passion, joy, and laughter to the world. Jean was an active member of the Bath Salvation Army in her youth and in later years worked as their social service secretary and served on their advisory board. She was an accomplished musician and enthusiastically shared her cornet, piano, and organ music throughout New England. Some of her notable and favorite activities and community service included: Sunbeams; Girl Guards; Corp Cadets; Glee Club, Morse HS Band; Mohiba, Swing Band; church organist and pianist; Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Drive; organized youth bowling league; camp experiences at Northfield in Massachusetts and Star Lake Music Camp in New Jersey; active membership in the American Legion; Pianist for Mrs. Weatherbee’s Dance Company; volunteer visitor at innumerable Maine nursing homes; and Maine delegate and activist at the Poor People’s March on Washington in 1968.

Jean was a hard and industrious worker. She made a living in various ways, including: waitressing; social service worker, self-employed baker/catering service. Later, when Jean and Peter summered in Old Orchard Beach, she worked 18 years at Funtown’s gift and candy stores. Jean and Peter recently retired to The Pines at Ocean Park.

Her biggest source of pride and joy was her beautiful family. She was Mom and Nana to many who will miss her hugs and laughter. Jean is survived by husband, Peter; her seven children: Sonia Calloway of Caribou, ME; Michelle Stuart and husband, John, of West Bath, ME; David Hudson and wife, Lynn, of Bath, ME; Dori Hamel and husband, Lee, of Brunswick, ME; Jennifer Leeman and husband, Mark, of Phippsburg, ME; Michael Gedney and wife, Aimee, of Bridgton, ME; and Ruthann Hastings and her husband, Todd, of West Gardner, ME; three sisters: Mary Avery of Schenectady, NY; Faith Anderson of Scarborough, ME; and Dolly Fleming of Burlington, VT; 17 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 2 nephews, 2 nieces, 1 great-nephew; 24 cousins, and countless friends. We will all hold fond memories of family gatherings, reunions, summers in OOB, and many celebrations throughout the years.

While Jean faced many challenges and adversities in her life, she persevered with humor and grace. Jean was a loving, generous, and feisty matriarch who lived life to its fullest and was a rich blessing and gift to all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held in August 2018. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jean’s memory to Morse High School Music Department, 826 High Street, Bath, ME 04530


Comments are not available on this story.