Obituaries

Chesapeake-- On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, Eldret E. Watson, cherished Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, and Brother, passed away and began his spiritual journey.

Affectionately known as Dump, Eldret was born on December 18, 1934, to the late Leon and Ruby Watson. He was educated in Norfolk County Public Schools and joined the United States Army in July 1961. After his honorable discharge, he worked at Norfolk Naval Base for over twenty years, becoming the first African American Crane Operator Foreman in 1980. He retired in 1987. During his time at Norfolk Naval Base, Eldret also ran his own bus service,

“Big Mo (Watson’s Bus Service),” transporting workers from Chesapeake and Norfolk to the base and students to Norfolk State University. He had a passion for travel, dressing well, and working. Eldret was a dedicated member of Mount Olive Church of God in Christ in Chesapeake, VA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Ruby Watson; brothers Carl Watson and Ellis Watson; sister Evelyn Edler; and daughter Gloria Brown.

Eldret is survived by his wife, Leola L. Watson; sons Reginald E. Watson and Randy L. Watson (Joann); daughter Gwendolyn Spellman; sisters Corine Moore and Cynthia Elder (Lee); and a large family of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A funeral will be 11:00 am Thursday; August 15, 2024 at Lee's Chapel AME Church; Chesapeake, VA. Viewing will be 4-6pm Wednesday; August 14, 2024 at Fitchett-Mann Funeral Services; 1146 Rodgers Street; Chesapeake, VA 23324.