Jean Markhofer Watson

Jean Markhofer Watson passed away peacefully after a cancer battle on October 11; she was 79.

She is survived by her loving family, daughters Diane, Mary Pat (Nick) and Christine (Michael), and her beloved grandchildren Alec, Kylie, David, James and Anastasia. She is preceded in death by her husband Jim, and her daughter, Laura.

Jean was a Nebraska girl, born in Columbus, and a St. Bon’s Shamrock through and through.

She attended Creighton University where she met and married the love of her life, Jim Watson. They settled in Omaha and raised their girls in the Cathedral neighborhood, where Jean was involved in Parish Council, Deaconate Life, and the Cathedral Elizabethan Feast.

Jean had a storied career spanning Mutual of Omaha, Lozier, and Sears, among other organizations. Her daughters were always inspired by her work ethic and her ability to prove that you could have any career you wanted.

She was a musician in her soul and enjoyed played piano with her brother and singing in her younger days. She loved attending the symphony with her husband and jazz shows later in her life. She was an avid gardener, an excellent cook and party hostess.

She will be celebrated in a wake ceremony on Tuesday, 10/17 from 5-7pm at John A Gentlemen, 1010 N 72 St, and at a funeral service on Wednesday 10/18, 10am, at St. Leo The Great, 1920 N 102 St.

Memorials are suggested to St. Leo’s parish or Lauritzen Gardens.