Margaret R. Watson (née Coleman), age 79, of Collinsville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on April 17, 2025.

Margaret was born on December 3, 1945, in Sandwich, Illinois, to Stephen David Coleman and Ruth Maria Coleman (née Knutson). From an early age, Margaret had a love for learning and a passion for language, which led her to a lifelong career in education. She began her professional journey as a high school teacher at Northwestern High School in Sciota, Illinois before becoming an English professor at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where she inspired generations of students with her knowledge, wit, and unwavering dedication.

On April 1, 1967, Margaret married the love of her life, Robert Dale Watson, at Rural Street Presbyterian Church in Rockford, Illinois. They shared many joyful years together until Robert's passing.

Margaret was a proud and active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Red Hat Ladies Society, where she found joy, purpose, and sisterhood. She was also a devoted member of Meadow Heights Baptist Church in Collinsville, Illinois, where her faith was an anchor in her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Robert, her parents Stephen and Ruth, and her brothers Don Coleman, Clarence Coleman.

Margaret is survived by her sister-in-law Eileen Coleman of St. Augustine, Florida; her nephews David (Helen), Douglas; her niece Debra (Robert) many great nieces and nephews; and her brother-in-law Irvin (Kathy) Watson of Wauconda, Illinois her nephew Scott Cogswell of Meredosia Illinois, sister-in-law Jeanette Annand (Watson) of Greenville SC. two nephews Robert Annand of Greenville SC; David Annand of Fort Myers FL. and niece Debra Liga (Annand) from Prospect Illinois. She also leaves behind many cherished friends, including Kim Martin of St. Jacob, Illinois; Sandy Swoik of Lake Zurich, Illinois; Patrick and Angel Harris of Macomb, Illinois; Jane Vogt of Collinsville Illinois and Anne Smith of Collinsville, Illinois.

Margaret's warmth, generosity, and love for family, education, and community will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

In celebration of Margaret's life memorial donations may be made to Meadow Heights Baptist Church, Red Hat Lady Society or daughters of the American Revolution. Memorials may be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.