John Harvey Watson, Jr.

In Loving Memory

John H. Watson, Jr.

December 27, 1936 - November 8, 2025

Celebration of Life

Tuesday, November 11, 2025 (Veterans Day)

2:00 p.m.

Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home

John Hawkins Parkway, Hoover, Alabama

Obituary

John H. Watson, Jr., 88, of Hoover, Alabama, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025. Born December 27, 1936, in Springville, Alabama, John grew up there and was a star basketball player in high school. He pursued formal education at the University of Alabama-Huntsville, the Alabama Military Academy, and Auburn University, where he studied electrical engineering. He also attended the U.S. Army Signal School.

John's career began at Hayes International in Huntsville, where he worked on the Saturn V project for NASA. In Birmingham, his professional journey continued with Rust Engineering, BE&K, and DeShazo Crane Company. His final and favorite role was at Birmingham Crane and Hoist, where he built not only a successful business but a true family environment. John was proud of his team and known for his ability to align talent with integrity. He served his country in both the Army National Guard and the Marine Reserve.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Myra Faye Watson. He is survived by his children Lisa Watson, John H. Watson III, and Cheryl Duke; grandchildren Alexandria Duke and Jeramey Watson.

Active in his community, John coached youth baseball, football, and basketball in Homewood. He loved to travel, entertain family, celebrate holidays, and cheer on Auburn football. John was a stoic man with a quick wit and dry sense of humor. Though intimidating from a distance, he was a teddy bear up close. Honor and integrity were the cornerstones of his life, and he believed a man's word was his bond.

In Loving Memory

"Do not let your hearts be troubled.

You believe in God; believe also in me."

- John 14:1

The Family Wishes to Express

Our heartfelt thanks for the many prayers, calls, visits, and acts of kindness shown during this time. Your love and support mean more than words can express.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any veterans' organization or to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.