Obituary of Nathaniel W. Watson

Nathaniel ‘Nat’ W. Watson, age 80, of Roosevelt, NY and Westerville, OH, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024 in Westerville, Ohio. Nat was born in Washington, DC, on January 6, 1944, to the late Wade and Annabelle Watson. Nat grew up in Brooklyn, New York, raised his family in Roosevelt, New York, and later retired to Westerville, Ohio.

He was a distinguished graduate of Brooklyn Technical High School and Pace University and went on to enjoy a remarkable 39 year career at Verizon. Nat began his career at New York Telephone Company (Verizon) as a lineman and it was not long before his great leadership, organizational and management skills caught the attention of his superiors, which started a storied 35 year career in various leadership positions. Nat was a Lineman, Foreman, Managing Director, and ultimately retired as a Vice President of Operations  Excellence for the Long Island region at  Verizon.

Nat was known as a vibrant, strong, and focused leader who not only led his various departments as a perennial top performer, but he made sure to avail himself as a mentor and sounding board for new employees to assist in their career development. This is no surprise as Nat was known to impart his sage advice and wisdom to all whom he interacted with whether on a business or personal basis. Nat served as a Eucharistic Minister at Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic church and later was welcomed into his new spiritual community as an active member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Westerville, Ohio.

Nat’s life was beautifully intertwined with his beloved wife of 59 years, Hazel Marie (Harris) Watson, who was his best friend and the love of his life. Together, they created a legacy of love, faith, strength, and unity that was admired by all who knew them.

A proud father to Natlie, Joe (Leann), Nicole, and Michael (Michelle), Nat found his greatest joy and pride in his children and grandchildren. He was a doting grandfather to Mia, Sydney, Morgan, Spencer, and Samuel Watson, who were the bright stars of his life. Nat’s love and guidance shined brightly on his family, leaving a lasting impact that will be cherished forever.

Besides his loving wife, children, and grandchildren, he is survived by his sister, Sharon Kirby (Ron), nephews Ronald and Kelvin Kirby, and niece Beverly Watson-Bogues and a host of loving relatives and friends. 

Nat was preceded in death by his parents, Wade and Annabelle (Johnson) Watson; brother, Jimmy Watson; and in-laws, Robert and Lillie Grace (Marsh) Harris.

Nat's passions included playing the vibes, photography, and enthusiastically following the New York Yankees, Knicks, and Giants. A voracious reader and mentor, he shared his knowledge and wisdom generously, touching the lives of many.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he loved and who loved him in return. May his soul rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to us all.