Ruth Marie Johanna Watson

Ruth Marie Johanna Watson, age 86, passed away Monday, June 16, 2025, at Stonebridge Oak Tree Villas. 

She was born on June 13, 1939, in New Franklin, Mo., the daughter of the late Emil C. and Johanna M. (Stratmann) Wilmsmeyer. Ruth was married to Jerry Wayne Watson on June 3, 1962, at the New Franklin Immanuel United Church of Christ. The couple shared nearly 60 years of marriage until his passing on January 18, 2021. 

Ruth was a 1957 graduate of New Franklin High School. Shortly following graduation, she entered the workforce as an employee at the National Bank of Boonville, where she worked until 1962. She and Jerry moved to Jefferson City in 1962 to make their home, where Jerry was employed with the Jefferson City school system. She was then employed at Exchange Bank in Jefferson City until 1964. 

Upon the arrival of her firstborn, Ruth dedicated her time to nurturing and caring for her family and home until her children were raised. Through their adolescence, her children and their friends made her home their go-to spot for snacks, an array of cereals, and the latest gadgets and gaming systems. She went back to work in 1990 at the Walmart Super Center in Jefferson City, where she retired in May 2005 after 15 years of employment with the company. 

Ruth and Jerry were longtime members of Central Church (formerly known as Central United Church of Christ) in Jefferson City. She remained an active member and served her church community in various capacities. She was a member of the Elenor Circle, Co-Chairman of the Funeral Committee, a Pre-Nursery Sunday School teacher for eight years, a member of the Women’s Fellowship, Prime Time Club, and a life member of the New Franklin Alumni Association. 

An avid fan of St. Louis Cardinals baseball, Ruth enjoyed partaking in America’s favorite pastime. She enjoyed watching her great-nephews play baseball and basketball and even tuned in via livestream when she couldn’t make the games. Traveling the United States with Central Bank’s Classic Club were cherished adventures that took her across the country via bus, train, and car. Above all, Ruth had a deep, steadfast love for her family. Caring for them in the home and supporting them in their activities and endeavors brought her a strong sense of joy and pride that she proudly displayed throughout her life. 

Ruth will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and protective nature. Her loving spirit touched many, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Survivors include her children, Janet Baker (Russell) of Holts Summit, Mo., and Michael Watson (Kate) of Ashland, Mo.; grandchildren, Derek Baker (Heidi) and Amanda Baker (Q’Juan); three great-grandchildren, Cora Ames, Mya Curtis, and Hayden Baker; brother, Hugo Wilmsmeyer (Donna) of Columbia, Mo.; sister, Helen Oser (Darrell) of New Franklin, Mo.; sister-in-law, Janet Wilmsmeyer, Granite City, Ill.; and a host of nieces, nephews, and members of her extended family. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; parents, Emil and Johanna; brothers, Melvin Wilmsmeyer, Richard Wilmsmeyer (Helen), and Ralph Wilmsmeyer (Sharon); sisters, Mildred Wilmsmeyer and Rosalie Schupp (Gilbert); and brother-in-law, Duane Watson (Mary). 

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the Diane Peck Sanctuary at Riverview Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Central Church, 118 West Ashley Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101, or a charity of the donor’s choice. 

The family of Ruth Watson would like to extend their deepest appreciation to the staff at The Timbers and Oak Tree Villas for the care and support offered to Ruth and her family. 

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.