Awona M. (Simpson) Watson, 82, of Jasonville, IN passed away at 2:54 pm Saturday, October, 24, 2026 in I.U. Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, IN surrounded by her loving family.

She was born January 12, 1944 in Franklin, IN to William Simpson and Lula (Hansford) Simpson.

Awona married Carlos Dean Watson on November 5, 1961, he passed away on January 21, 2021.

Survivors include her children, Deana Samm (Joe) of Jasonville, IN, Carlos Dean Watson ll (Lora) of Bloomfield, IN, W. Matthew Watson (Marie) of Fishers, IN; grandchildren, Justin Matthew Samm (Mary), Kayla Blackmore (Kenley), Elizabeth Drake (Caleb), Rachel Gentry (John), Hannah Query (Sammy), Nathan Watson, Abbigail Wright (Gavin), Wyatt “Tom” Watson, Waylon “Huck” Watson; great-grandchildren, Aliyah, Gabbi, Erin, Rhys, Breelyn, Hadden, Evalyn, Amelia, Georgia, Daisy, Ben, Marcie, Mavis, Greyson; brothers, Bill Simpson (Cookie) of Shelburn, IN, Jack Simpson (Natalie) of Alabama; sister in-laws, Patty, Doris, Thelma; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers, Vola Simpson, Jim Simpson; sister, Marie Kennedy; grandson, Jacob Watson.

Mom, or Nanny to her grandkids, loved her husband. They began writing love letters when she was a teen and while he was in the Army. After several months, they finally met. She said it was love at first sight. Three months later, they were married. Carlos Dean Watson was the love of her life. They were deeply devoted to each other and continue to be, even now in the hereafter.

Awona loved shopping. Countless hours were spent perusing every aisle of every store she entered. While she loved traveling with her family, shopping was her true interest. A trip to Yellowstone? She wondered where the closest Wal-Mart or Macy’s was. But can you call it shopping if she never ended up buying anything?

Nanny also loved to cook. No matter the time of day, if there was company, she was offering to cook a meal. Ceesecake, banana pudding, chili, you name it. She could make anything and make it well. But her grandkids’ favorite pick? Grilled Cheese. Or as she called it “toasted cheese.” The simplest of foods meant the most to her family. Many moments were spent with her sipping coffee and eating mini powdered donuts.

Here family was her life. Everyone in the family was referred to as her “kids.” Grandkids, great-grandkids, sons in-law, nieces, you name it; they were all her kids. Everyone was welcome in her home. Everyone who knew her loved her.

But most importantly of all to Mom was her faith. Jesus was her Savior and she made sure everyone knew Him, even up to her passing. Her children said she dragged them to church nearly four days a week growing up, but they’re grateful she did. She laid the foundation for their faith and shaped the people they are today. If Nanny had one thing she wished for everyone, it would be for them to find Jesus and let Him into their lives.

Awona Mae Watson was a Christian mother, wife, grandmother, sister, friend, and so much more to countless people. She will be missed.

Arrangements are entrusted to Michael W. Cox, Cox Funeral Home; 218 South Meridian Street; Jasonville, Indiana. Visitation is scheduled from 11 AM to 1 PM Wednesday, October 28, 2026 at the Funeral Home. Services are immediately following at 1 PM with Rev. Terry Dowell and Justin Samm officiating.

Interment will be at Lebanon Cemetery in Midland, IN.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in memory of Awona to Seedline International, 2747 E. US Hwy 40, Brazil, IN 47834. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.