Martha Joyce Watson

Martha Joyce Watson, 87, passed to eternal life on February 28, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by family and friends. She was born February 7, 1939, in Canton, Illinois to Gerald and Irene (Lampkin) Anderson. She is preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, Darrell K. Watson, two beloved children, Joyce Elaine Rasti (Max) and Robbie Dale Watson (Sherrie), her brother, Phillip G. Anderson, and her Sister Judy J. Haynes.

She is survived by her daughter, Tina Louise Ankeny (Douglas), four Grandchildren, James C. Swasey (Beky), Anna Swasey Walton (William), Clint A. Rasti (Denver, CO), and Alexander T. Watson (Ocala, FL) plus four great grandchildren, Benjamin, Keegan, Emily, and Lucille. In addition, she is survived by her dear Sister Janice Copeland (Sonny), one nephew, Phillip Deaton, and three nieces, Rachel Haynes, Deanna Carr, and Chrissy Foster as well as extended family, and friends. She will be greatly missed and forever loved.

In addition to living in Illinois, she resided in several Florida locations, spending her later years in Port St Lucie. She achieved a bachelor’s degree from Nova Southeastern University and was employed by Southern Bell (AT&T) in telecommunications as a circuit equipment engineer. Martha belonged to Phi Beta Psi Sorority, dedicated to cancer research, and served as a Past National Editor. She was a published writer of short stories and articles, an avid game player and shopper, and loved spending time with her family. She attended the First United Methodist Church of Port St Lucie.

A visitation will be held at Haisley Tribute Center located at 2041 Southwest Bayshore Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL 34984, on Friday, 3/13/26 from 10 am to 12pm, immediately followed by her celebration of life. She will be interred with her husband at Sarasota National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in her memory to Phi Beta Psi Sorority at 2991 SE San Jeronimo Road, Port St Lucie, FL, 34952.