Maggie Watson

Maggie Watson, a cherished beacon of warmth and kindness, passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 23, 2026, at the age of 78, following a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born on September 16, 1947, in the small town of Clapper, Missouri, Maggie was the beloved daughter of Ernest and Anna Belle Maher Morkin. She carried her parents' legacy of love and compassion throughout her life, touching the hearts of everyone she met. A proud graduate of Monroe City High School in Monroe City, Missouri, Maggie was a testament to the strength and spirit of her community. Her roots in Clapper and Monroe City were deep, and she remained a stalwart supporter of her hometown values, embracing the simple joys that life had to offer. Maggie's life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and a deep sense of family. She was predeceased by her 2 beloved husbands, Waldo Thewlis (m. August 9 1971 - August 24 1996), and Jackie Watson (m. May 20 2017 - July 24 2023) , and her treasured family members: her 2 sisters Mary "Imogene" Hawn and Annetta "Ernestine" Morkin; and her two brothers Francis "Frank" Morkin and William "Bill" Lawrence Morkin, and her devoted parents. Despite these profound losses, Maggie's heart remained open and giving, embodying a resilience that inspired everyone around her. She is survived by a loving family that was the center of her world. Her spirit lives on in her children, Jesse and Dawn Lewis; Mark Thewlis; Mike and Heather Thewlis; James and Stephanie Thewlis. Her legacy is further enriched by her 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored and influenced with her unyielding love. An active member of the New Oakland Baptist Church, Maggie's faith was a guiding force in her life. Her involvement in the church community was a testament to her unwavering commitment to service and spiritual growth. Her church family was an extension of her own, and she delighted in sharing her faith journey with them. Maggie had a zest for life that was infectious. She was a woman who found joy in the company of friends and family, often found at gatherings playing her favorite games—Mexican dominoes, Sorry, Pitch, Puzzles, and Yahtzee. She also love to go fishing. These moments of laughter and camaraderie were precious to her, and those who joined her at the game table will forever cherish the memories of her competitive spirit and joyful smile. Maggie's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and faith. Her gentle presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. As we say goodbye to this remarkable woman, we celebrate a life well-lived, rich in love and kindness, and find comfort in knowing she is at peace. May Maggie Watson's legacy of love and kindness continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.