CONROE FUNERAL DIRECTORS
The Hon. Dennis D. Watson (Ret.), 75, of Willis, Texas, passed from this earth at his home on October 8, 2024. Born on June 4, 1949 in Marshall, Texas, Dennis was the son of the late Robert Pitt Watson, Jr. and Ruby Mae Watson and brother to Beverly Hill. Dennis' lifetime journey was one of service, wisdom and unwavering commitment to his family, the law and the community.
Dennis attended Marshall High School, graduating in 1967, and though offered multiple athletic scholarships for football, he selected Baylor University, receiving a full scholarship for football, playing as a defensive end. Thereafter, he received his J.D. of Jurisprudence from Baylor University School of Law, graduating in 1973.
Upon graduating from law school, Dennis moved to Conroe, Texas where he successfully practiced at a local firm for twenty-six years, specializing in the areas of family, criminal and juvenile law. He continued his incredible service and dedication to Montgomery County by running for and being successfully elected to County Court at Law Number One, taking office on January 1, 1999. He served in this judicial capacity for twenty-four years and during six of those years he also served as the Juvenile Judge, retiring from the bench on December 31, 2022. Throughout his tenure as an elected official, he served as a mentor to many young attorneys and county staff, always firmly believing in an "open door" policy to all. Those who worked with him still appreciate the lessons he taught them over the years. Dennis approached his work with patience, fairness, deep compassion, and sometimes, tough love. His love and appreciation for children as a whole gave him the gift of being able to help them learn to help themselves, thereby giving them the opportunity for success in the future. His commitment to justice and guidance will forever be his indelible mark on Montgomery County, making a generational impact for all.
In addition to his official capacities, Dennis was an avid participant in various service organizations, including Conroe Noon Lions Club, serving as President 1981-1982, and becoming a Lifetime member in 2016, serving for over fifty years. His additional service included Montgomery County Bar Association, Texas Bar Association, Texas Bar Foundation, Director of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, American Cancer Society and Doctors Hospital. His commitment to giving back and helping others was infinite.
Beyond his personal and professional accomplishments, Dennis was a man of varied interests and deep passions. Being an avid outdoorsman, he had a deep love for hunting, clay shooting and fishing. He also enjoyed participating in multiple sports, including golf, snow skiing, swimming and of course, his beloved football. His favorite hobbies included the limitless love of music, dancing, reading and playing cards with the boys at the Club. His joy of adventure was second to none, traveling the world with his wife and close friends, visiting almost every continent in the world.
Dennis had one true love, his pride and joy, of being a father to four children, Colton, Reagan, Kelley and Kyle. He was also the proud grandfather of three, Erin, Brooke and Kameron. His playful mannerisms, endless guidance, unlimited generosity and overflow of love and affection were continuously showered on his family and friends.
Dennis is survived by his loving wife, Laura, his sister, Beverly, his children and their spouses, his grandchildren, his father-in-law, Ken Kleinmann and spouse, his brother-in-law, M. Craig Kleinmann and family and sister-in-law, Jen Lahad, her family.
Dennis Watson's life was a testament to the power of love and the strength of community. He was a man who gave selflessly, loved deeply and approached life with profound thoughtfulness. His absence will be indefinitely felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his spirit will continue to inspire those he leaves behind. Though the void left by his departure can never be filled, the memories of his kindness, his contagious laughter and unwavering integrity will forever remain in the hearts of his family, friends and the countless lives he touched throughout his life.
As we bid farewell to the Honorable Dennis D. Watson, we take solace in knowing his was a life well-lived, a path well-trodden and a legacy that will endure for generations to come, never to be forgotten by all.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2024 at the First Baptist Church in Conroe, Texas, beginning at 1:00 pm., with Judge Wayne Mack officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: The Conroe Noon Lions Club.
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