Jefferson M. "Jeff" Watson

Jefferson M. “Jeff’ Watson, 72, of New Philadelphia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 28, er2023 in Community Hospice-Truman House at New Philadelphia, following an illness.

Born in Dover, he was the son of the late Walter L. and June L. (Casebeer) Watson and a graduate of New Philadelphia High School. Jeff was self-employed, hanging Wallpaper and Painting interiors of homes as the owner of Jefferson House Wall Coverings at New Philadelphia.

Jeff was a longtime member of the New Philadelphia Elks and New Philadelphia AmVets 1338.He was also an avid fan of Ohio State Football, the Cleveland Browns and a longtime fan of NASCAR with his favorite drivers being Richard Petty and Jeff Gordon. Jeff was also inducted as a member of the Dover-New Philadelphia USBC Bowling Hall of Fame.

Surviving are his wife, Bonnie L. (Espenschied) Watson, of the residence; a daughter and her fiancé, Andrea Watson and Matt Bitikofer of New Philadelphia and a son, Kevin Watson and his companion Luriebeth VanRiper also of New Philadelphia; four grandsons, Larry Ennis, Jr., Wesley Ennis, Braden Swaney and Blaze Bacon; five great grandchildren; his sister, Jane (Bill) Swinderman; two brothers, Kent (Susan) Watson and Kerby (Julie) Watson; his brother-in law, Carl Milyiori; his step-mother, Freda Watson; a step-brother, Jeff Wern and a step-sister, Amy Moore and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Jeff was also preceded in death by an infant son; his brother, Mark Watson and his sister, Claire Milyiori.

In keeping with his wishes, Jeff is to be cremated through the care of the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia and public visitation or services have not been scheduled.

The family requests that memorial contributions be directed to Community Hospice-Truman House, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.