Charles Michael "Mike" Watson, of Bradenton, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025. He was 80 years old.
He is survived by his beloved wife Brenda; son Brett (Arlene) Watson; daughters Andrea (Chris) Ewing and Jessica Mead; stepdaughters Heather (Lewie) Schwartz and Andrea (Lee) Harmon; sister Debbie Gerrety of Lancaster, Ohio; 14 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren-with a seventh expected in November. Nothing brought him more joy than welcoming each new member into the family.
Born on February 25, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, Mike was the son of Patrick H. Watson and Rosemary (O'Brien) Watson. He grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and in 1983 moved his family to Sarasota, Florida.
Mike dedicated over three decades of his professional life to Prudential Insurance. A top-producing and award-winning agent, he built a reputation not only for excellence in his field but also for the deep personal connections he formed with his clients. Rather than pursuing management roles offered to him, Mike chose to remain an agent-a decision rooted in his genuine love for people and the joy he found in visiting clients personally in their homes.
In 1997, Mike gave his life to Jesus Christ. He cherished attending church with his family and was known for offering heartfelt prayers for those around him. His favorite saying -"May the Lord bless you and the devil miss you. All the time, rain or shine!"-was a reflection of both his faith and his warm-hearted spirit.
In 2003, Mike married Brenda, whom he lovingly called "the apple of my eye." Together they resided in Sarasota as well as many summers in the mountains of Franklin, North Carolina with their beloved pets. Mike loved the mountains!
Mike was diagnosed with dementia in 2016. With Brenda's devoted care and the support of his children and stepdaughters, Mike was surrounded by love until his passing.
Mike took immense pride in his family. He is leaving behind a legacy of love.
He was preceded in death by his parents Patrick and Rosemary Watson and brothers Pat, John, and Dennis.
A man of kindness and compassion, Mike never missed an opportunity to share the love of Christ with others. Usually starting with the simple question-"Do you believe in Jesus?"-he sought to bring light into every life he touched.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Empath Tidewell Hospice in honor of the compassionate care they provided during Mike's final days.
