Samantha Jane Watson, 79, was born February 15, 1937 in Soper, Oklahoma. She lost her long struggle with Alzheimer’s on January 22, 2017. She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years; Morris Watson, of Escalon, whom she referred to as her guardian angel. Together they were a true loving couple and they were always an example of what a good marriage should be. She is also survived by daughters; Patsy Smith of Modesto, and Tammy (Jack) Swisegood of Escalon. Grandchildren; Erick Smith of Modesto, Samantha (Armondo) Guevara of Lathrop, Tanya Dorton of Riverbank, Sabrina Moore of Escalon, Nick Swisegood of Chico, and nine great grandchildren. Brother Jesse Jack “Buddy” (Eva) Small of Ceres, sisters Dorothy Pasch of Crescent City and Rosalee Hawkins of Modesto. Preceded in death by her parents Kirk and Della Small, sister Carolyn Leydecker, Brothers Waylon and Henry Small. She retired from Hershey’s chocolate factory in Oakdale after 31 years. Samantha loved road trips. If you started the car she was getting in. She enjoyed picnics at the river and walks among the wildflowers with her family. She shared a love for gambling, swap meets and antiquing with her husband. Most of all she loved being with family. We will miss her every day and our road trips will never be quite the same without her in the co pilot seat.
The Escalon (Calif.) Times
Feb. 22, 2017