Mary Lee (Simmons) Watson

Mary Lee Watson, lovingly known to many as “Molly” and “Mobster,” was born on April 15, 1945, in Faunsdale, Alabama. She was born Mary Lee Simmons to Vinnie Luella Simmons and Allan Ward. When Mary Lee was just eight years old, she and her mother relocated to East Moline, Illinois. East Moline became her lifelong home—where she built her family, her legacy, and a life rooted in service, love, and strength until her passing. At the age of nineteen, Mary Lee met the love of her life, Robert E. Watson. Their connection was immediate, and in January 1964, they were married, beginning a union that would anchor generations. Together, they welcomed three children:  Robert Watson (Sharetta), Lytonya Watson; and Willie Watson. Mary Lee was a hardworking and trailblazing woman. She spent many years employed at the state hospital as a caregiver, dedicating herself to the care of others. She also made history as the first Black meter maid in her community. Later in life, she devoted herself fully to caring for her grandchildren—a role she embraced with pride, devotion, and deep love. She was also a faithful member of Mount Zion Church. Mary Lee was the matriarch of her family—a woman known for her humor, strength, ambition, and unwavering dedication to those she loved. She was truly a force to be reckoned with and was deeply loved for exactly who she was. She leaves behind thirteen grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert E. Watson, parents, Vinnie Luella Simmons and Allan Ward; fourteen siblings; and her beloved great-grandson, Keyante Campbell. Mary Lee found joy in taking walks and spending time with her nephew Dophus and his wife Pearl. Being close in age, the three were inseparable. One of the family’s most cherished memories comes from a moment when her daughter jokingly told her grandson she was going to cook chicken. The child cried, pleading, “Don’t cook my chicken,” believing she meant his great-great-grandmother. From that moment on, Mary Lee was lovingly called “Chicken,” a nickname that continues to bring smiles through tears. Mary Lee Watson’s legacy of love, strength, and laughter will live on through the generations to come.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 6, 2026 at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, East Moline.  Pastor P. Wonder Harris will officiate. There will be a visitation starting at 9:00 a.m.  Burial will follow at the Rock Island National Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the family.  

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