Lenore Watson

Lenore “Lee” A. Watson, (née Harrison), 84, passed away on June 18, 2023 with her family close by, in Pullman, Washington. She was born on April 1, 1939, in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia to Anne “Nancy” (née McKenna) Lamont and Leonard Harrison.

At 18 years old, Lenore boarded a ship from Australia with her best friend, connected in their shared desire to see the
world. They obtained work visas in Canada, and after secretarial training, worked for the British Consulate in Vancouver, British Columbia. When a similar position opened at the British Consulate in San Francisco, Lenore was recommended for the position by her supervisor. She told everyone she met that she didn’t hesitate to take the opportunity to live in the States, especially in “SanFran.” While working for the Consulate, she met Larry Arthur Watson, a young Marine stationed at Treasure Island, at a USO dance. She said it was love at first sight.

Larry and Lee had four children and through thick and thin, the two celebrated 61 years of marriage. The family lived in many parts of the U.S. and this was only possible because of Lee’s willingness to support the opportunities that availed themselves. Through many transitions, she always found a way to make a home. Lee dedicated her life to supporting and guiding her children as a fiercely dedicated mother. Love of family and her faith were guiding principles
throughout her life.

Lee wore many hats in her working life: executive secretary, bank teller, leisure industry customer service, and had a strong presence in the family business. But being a mom was always her first priority, with a love of people closely following. Lee looked for the good and gifts in people–if they didn’t know their specialness before they met her, they did after.

Lee’s life-long loves and hobbies included tennis, storytelling, walking, shopping, reading, cooking, bingo, Lotto tickets, slot machines, and traveling. She was always game for a trip, no matter how big or small. Lee had a beautiful smile, delightful laugh, and an irresistible Aussie accent that drew people in like bees to honey. Always helpful and making friends easily, she never met a stranger. Her favorite greeting was a hug. This joyful energy boomeranged around her. She loved and always stayed connected to her Australian roots, and the family was blessed with visits from relatives and trips to her country of origin. She devoted much of time and energy to family and friends in the U.S. and “down under.” Lee was a relentless letter writer, and cards were never late.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry A. Watson (2021), her parents, Nancy Lamont and Leonard Harrison, and her sister, Joan Patricia Harrison.

She is survived by four children: Monique Watson (Greg Schmidt), Brant Watson (Deanne Francis), Bryan Watson (Kirsten Pless), Francene Watson (Scott McBeath); eight cherished grandchildren, Hugh Schmidt, Wystan Schmidt, Haley Morales (Andre), Abbey Watson, Nolan Watson, Olivia Watson, Annika Watson and Rory McBeath; and one great-grandchild, Henry Morales.

A funeral mass will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Springfield, Missouri at 9:00am Monday, July 3rd, 2023 with Father Patrick Nwokoye officiating. A graveside service will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Richland, Missouri, with Rev. Michael Morgera officiating. Lee will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Larry.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Lee’s memory to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home in Springfield, Missouri where permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.