Rita Watson

Rita Watson, age 96, gained her angel wings on February 2, 2026. Rita was born on March 1, 1929, in Landshut, Germany. She lived a long and meaningful life filled with love, family, resilience, and cherished memories. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Watson; her children, Brigitte Taylor, LeRoy Hopper, Patrick Hopper, and Mike Hopper; and her grandchild, Mark Newman. Rita is survived by her daughter, Silvia (Robert) Eastman, and her son, Billy (Sabine) Hopper. She also leaves behind many beloved grandchildren: Nicole (Johnny) Carr, Curt Smith (Jonathan LeBlanc), Jon Smith, Stephanie (Kary) Bigbie, Danny Newman, Allison Eastman, Daniel (Nadine) Hopper, Jericho Hopper, Willow Hopper, Charlene Hopper, and Rose Hopper, along with 11 great-grandchildren who will carry forward her legacy. Rita’s life was a testament to strength, wisdom, and courage. She will be deeply missed and remembered by all who knew her.

 “Every life is a story. Every person a book. When someone dies, a chapter of their story ends, but the story of their impact continues to inspire and live on.” (Anonymous)