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Chesapeake-- On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, Eldret E. Watson, cherished Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, and Brother, passed away and began his spiritual journey.
Affectionately known as Dump, Eldret was born on December 18, 1934, to the late Leon and Ruby Watson. He was educated in Norfolk County Public Schools and joined the United States Army in July 1961. After his honorable discharge, he worked at Norfolk Naval Base for over twenty years, becoming the first African American Crane Operator Foreman in 1980. He retired in 1987. During his time at Norfolk Naval Base, Eldret also ran his own bus service,
“Big Mo (Watson’s Bus Service),” transporting workers from Chesapeake and Norfolk to the base and students to Norfolk State University. He had a passion for travel, dressing well, and working. Eldret was a dedicated member of Mount Olive Church of God in Christ in Chesapeake, VA.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Ruby Watson; brothers Carl Watson and Ellis Watson; sister Evelyn Edler; and daughter Gloria Brown.
Eldret is survived by his wife, Leola L. Watson; sons Reginald E. Watson and Randy L. Watson (Joann); daughter Gwendolyn Spellman; sisters Corine Moore and Cynthia Elder (Lee); and a large family of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.
A funeral will be 11:00 am Thursday; August 15, 2024 at Lee's Chapel AME Church; Chesapeake, VA. Viewing will be 4-6pm Wednesday; August 14, 2024 at Fitchett-Mann Funeral Services; 1146 Rodgers Street; Chesapeake, VA 23324.
12/05/2024
Judith Henderson
08/17/2024
George Gaskins
To the Watson family my deepest sympathy & the Bells Mill community we will definitely miss him, keep the faith in Jesus and pray for one another. George Gaskins "GG"
08/16/2024
Verna Bowden
08/16/2024
Miriam Satterfield Walker
I would like to offer my heart felt sympathy to the family. I have many fond memories of Dump, including riding his bus from Bell's Mill to Norfolk State. He was always kind and caring -- Miriam
08/15/2024
Dwayne & Donna Whitfield
Mr. Watson had a Big heart ❤️ I'm praying for the family.Dwayne&Donna Whitfield 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
08/14/2024
Russell Williams
Uncle Dump a outstanding individual always up and about doing for others, he will be missed. God bless him. Russell Williams
08/14/2024
Pamela Seward-Hicks
Sending condolences to the family of our Dad's best friend and our "Uncle, Dump"! We are deeply sadden to learn of his passing but have years of fond memories to hold on to. May God grant you all peace during this time. Berlado Costin Pamela Seward-Hicks Leslie Seward, III
08/13/2024
Cheryle Corprew&Family
08/13/2024
Barbara Halsey
08/13/2024
James A Wingate Sr
My thoughts and prayer are with the family James A Wingate Sr and family
08/12/2024
Lamont Simmons
"He was a pillar in our community. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family, friends, colleagues and neighbors. He is sorely missed."
08/08/2024
Dianne Turner -Whitt (Philadelphia,PA)
Dear Cynthia,Corrine and the entire family, please accept my condolences on the passing of your beloved brother. May be "sleep in heavenly peace."
Red and White Handled Basket was sent for Eldret Etheridge Watson - 08/13/2024
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