Bennie J. Watson, 75, of Waco, peacefully transitioned to his eternal home on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, after a courageous battle with numerous health complications.
Funeral Service: 11AM Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, located at 8387 S. 3rd St., Waco, TX.
Born in Riesel, Texas, Bennie moved to Waco with his parents and six siblings during his early years. He attended and graduated from Carver High School in 1967 before enrolling in the United States Job Corps program, where he gained valuable skills that facilitated his enlistment in the U.S. Air Force in 1969 as a jet engine mechanic. After dedicating 20 honorable years of service to our nation, Bennie retired and returned to Waco with his family.
Upon settling back in Waco, Bennie’s career led him to M&M Mars Corp., where he worked in production and operations, completing another commendable chapter in his professional life.
A man of profound faith, Bennie was an active member of the Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church congregation. He served as the Sunday School Program Superintendent and engaged in various Ministry Outreach initiatives and the men’s choir. His commitment to sharing and living by the teachings of Christ was evident in all aspects of his life.
In his leisure time, Bennie enjoyed a variety of interests, including car repair, listening to jazz and blues music, and spending time with friends and family playing spades or dominoes. He was also an avid Dallas Cowboys fan. Above all, his favorite pastime was fishing, a joy he affectionately referred to as “wetting the hook.”
Bennie is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Fleta (Courtney); daughter, Karon; sons, Michael (spouse DeWanna) and Cedric (spouse Maribel); granddaughter, Venecia; brothers, Thurman Jr. (spouse Thelma), Donnie, Marvis and David (spouse Jenell); sisters, Brenda, Linda and Lesia; and a host of nieces and nephews.
For those wishing to send floral arrangements, please deliver them to Lake Shore Funeral Home & Crematory, 5201 Steinbeck Bend, Waco, TX 76708.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shepherd’s Heart Ministries.
Print Obituary & Condolences
On behalf of myself and my entire family, it’s with bitter-sweetness that we express our condolences to the entire Watson family. It’s bitter because of the loss/void of life, but sweet because Bennie Joe is now resting from his labor, and one day shall receive his reward from the Lord in that great getting-up jubilee. Rest Well Cousin
Rest In Peace, brother.
Thurman and Edna Mae Watson Sr. would be proud of the man and family man that you became. God Bless the family.
Our sincere condolences to the Watson Family..We had to pleasure of knowing Benny fromM&M Mars..He was a very kind person.He will be welcomed with open arms .
Connie Kubitza and Jim Mabry
Fleta and family, our heartfelt condolences to you. Sorry to hear of the loss of your love one. May God continue to bless and strengthen you today and the days ahead. 🙏🏿♥️🌹
Vickie Campbell
(Campbell Decendant)
My deepest Condolences to my Family.
May God give you Strength at this time.
Rest in Peace my Cousin
My deepest sympathy to the families.
I’ll miss the happy moments we shared playing dominoes and telling jokes.
Praying for the family
Chris Moore and family.
I really do miss Joe as I always called him. I followed him into the Air Force and became a jet engine mechanic just like him. I followed him to Austin, Texas and at the same Air Force base. Then I followed Joe to Church and found Jesus Christ. I will really him.