GRACIE MAE MCKNIGHT WATSON

Gracie Mae McKnight Watson of Ava, Missouri, passed away January 16, 2010. Private viewing for the family will be at the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home in Ava from 3:00 -4:00 p.m. Monday, January 18, followed by viewing for friends from 4:00-5:00 p.m. Graveside service will be Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010, 3:00 p.m. at the Little Bethel Memorial Park in Duncanville, Texas. Arrangements are under the direction of David Clayton Funeral Homes

Gracie was born March 15,1923, in Green's Creek, Erath County, Texas, to Dicy Belle and Ulva Winstead McKnight, both of whom preceded her in death. She was one of seven children: Wilma Dee, Buster, Ophelia, Deloris, Belle, and Clayton McKnight. She is survived by siblings Belle Sechrist, and Clayton McKnight. She is also survived by her husband of seventy years, Travis Dean Watson, her son C. Dean Watson and his wife Elizabeth Watson, grandsons Rick Watson, Scott Watson, Travis Watson, Nathan Watson, Benjamin Watson, Eric Stenzel, and Ryan Stenzel, and two great grandchildren, Kristen Watson, and Eli Watson. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Gracie spent her early adult years in the Wichita Falls and Stephenville areas of Texas before moving to Dallas. In Dallas, Gracie was a nurse's aide at the Methodist Central Hospital for many years. There she enjoyed taking care of newborn babies in the nursery. Upon retirement she spent some years in Arkansas and Texas before moving to the Ava, Missouri, area where she was residing at the time of her passing. Gracie was a member of the Methodist Church.

Gracie most enjoyed spending time with her family. As a younger woman she enjoyed fishing and camping. She was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan, and watching them was one of her favorite pastimes during the last few years.

Gracie was known for her pleasant demeanor, her cheerful smile, and her interest in others. She will be missed by her family and everyone who knew her.

Memorials may be made to the Arthritis Foundation in care of the funeral home.