In Memoriam

Written By LaToya Henry
 

Queen Mother JoAnn Watson

 
 

A FIGHTER FOR FREEDOM PAR EXCELLENCE

Maya Angelou made it very clear when describing certain individuals. “When someone shows you who they are believe them the first time!”  JoAnn Watson made me a believer the first time I saw her.  She was taking care of her siblings and she was outspoken at Macculloch Elementary School in Detroit.   She showed me who she was as the president of the Central High School student chapter of the NAACP. She showed me who she was as the editor for the Central Student, our high school newspaper. She showed us all who she was as the first woman to be appointed as Executive Director of the Detroit Branch NAACP from 1990-1997. Her examples are legendary. Freedom Fighter, Writer, Orator, Organizer, Talk Show Host, Pastor, Wife, Mother, and Grandmother.  She had been elevated to the royal position of ‘Queen Mother’ based on her revolutionary, universal recognition as one who un-apologetically speaks Truth to Power. This woman of God even inspired me to go the NAACP way.  She has now gone by the way of our Lord. She now rests in Eternal Power. From the halls of the Detroit City Council to the Divine Council of the Ancestors she will continue to be a supreme example. One of truth, courage, determination and faith for the forward progress of our people.

HomeGoing Service

Saturday, July 22, 2023
Family Hour: 10:00 a.m. | Service: 11:00 a.m.

The homegoing service for Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson will take place at Fellowship Chapel located at 7707 West Outer Drive, Detroit, MI 48235.

Please share your condolences and fondest memories of Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson. If you have a favorite photo you may upload it here as well. All condolences and well wishes will be shared with the Watson family.

LaToya Henry