Mary Norton Watson

Mary Ann Norton Pederson Watson, 87, born on October 2, 1937, peacefully entered into Heaven's gates Wednesday night, May 7, 2025, at the Gibson Health and Rehabilitation Center. Her departure leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to family, faith, and the craft that defined so much of her life.

Mary grew up at Norton's Dairy outside of Wrens and attended school in Wrens but left before graduating to marry and start a family. In 1976, she and her family moved to Stapleton, where she embraced her roles with unwavering commitment. After the passing of her first husband, E. C. "Pete" Pederson, in December 1997, Mary took up work as a seamstress, skillfully supporting her family by sewing for various garment companies and taking in jobs at home. This transition marked a turning point, showcasing her resilience and determination to provide for her loved ones.

In 2008, Mary found love again and married Dan Ronald Watson, moving back to Wrens, where she continued to nurture her passion for sewing, along with gardening and cooking. Her meticulous nature extended beyond her sewing to everything she touched, from her immaculate home to the beautiful gardens she nurtured.

A joyful spirit, Mary always expressed gratitude, often responding to inquiries about her well-being with the phrase "I am blessed." A devoted mother, she loved her family unconditionally, instilling in them the values of hard work, faith, and perseverance. Her life was a testament to her belief in Jesus Christ, holding onto her faith throughout numerous trials and tribulations.

Surviving Mary are her beloved children: Joyce Pederson Gray (Rick), Debra Johnson, and Randall E. Pederson (Sandra). She cherished her grandchildren: Eric Sheppard, Austin Gray, Brandon Beckum (Bobbi), Wesley Beckum (Shelby), Heather B. Brown, Elizabeth Jones, Casey Johnson, Michael Meeks, Eric Meeks (Brooke) and J.T. Lampkin (Ariel); along with her many great-grandchildren—Micah Sheppard, Andy Sheppard, Clayton Beckum, Haydon Beckum, Allyssa Beckum, Braydon Beckum, Cole Pittman, Anna Bryant, Bryson Bryant, Haley Long (Monti), Devin Brown, Nathan Brown, Savannah Powell, Eric Meeks Jr., Aaliyah Meeks, Makayla Meeks, Paisley Meeks, Evan Meeks, Madeline Meeks, Payton Meeks, Brodie Meeks, Brooklyn Meeks, Shalynn Lampkin, Jace Lampkin and Kincley Lampkin. She also celebrated the joy of two great-great-grandchildren, Evelyn Long and Monti Long Jr., and held dear by extended family and friends..

Mary is preceded in death by her husbands, E. C. "Pete" Pederson and Dan Ronald Watson; her parents, Olene Cooper Norton and Clifford F. Norton; and her sister, Margaret English.

Her memory will be honored at James Funeral Home with visitation scheduled for Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and with the funeral service on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM with Rev. Tony Key officiating. Interment will follow in the Wrens Memorial Cemetery.

Mary Ann Norton Watson lived a life rich in love and service, leaving her family with treasured memories and lessons that will last for generations. She will be deeply missed.