Frances S. Watson (nee Schlafer), age 93 of Rock Rift / Walton, New York, passed away April 18, 2025. She was born on May 31, 1931.
Frances retired from Cornell Cooperative Extension, Delaware County after 30 years of dedicated service. Throughout her career, she also worked with the Delaware County Soil Conservation Service, Walton United Presbyterian Church, Adams and Travis Real Estate, and the Delaware Register and Review.
She was a devoted member of the Rock Rift Presbyterian Church where she served as Clerk of the Session and of the Walton United Presbyterian Church where she served as Deacon and Sunday School Superintendent. She was a member of both the Liturgical Committee and Women’s Association.
Frances was an active member of her community, serving as president of the Business and Professional Women’s Club and volunteering for Planned Parenthood.
Frances is survived by her daughter, Stephanie Ann Watson; son-in-law, Daniel Alexander; grandchildren Matthew and Zoe Alexander; sister Leona Poulin (John); sisters-in-law Nina Schlafer and Diana Klein, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends Cindy Peterson and Patricia Knapp.
She was preceded in death by her father Frank Schlafer, mother Gladys Rogers Schlafer, husband Stephen C. Watson (married March 4, 1955), sisters Rebecca Simpson Layton, Joyce Williams, Kathleen Benson, and brothers Cecil Schlafer and Ross Schlafer.
She loved her family and stayed connected with her extended family and host of friends by always remembering them with birthday and anniversary cards or frequent phone calls. Frances’ friendly demeanor and outgoing spirit endeared her to everyone she met on life’s journey. Her eternal gratitude goes to all those along this path including her final caregivers at A.O. Fox Nursing, “Miss Julie and Miss Jadynce.”
On Saturday May 3, services for France S. Watson will be officiated by Reverend Paul J. Huh, Ph.D. and Pastor Donna R. LeRoy at the Walton United Presbyterian Church, 58 East Street. The family will be in attendance for a calling hour at 3 o’clock followed by the service at 4 o’clock. Family and friends are invited to a punch and cookies reception in the church fellowship room following the service to share photos and stories together.
Contributions in her memory may be made to the Walton United Presbyterian Church or the William B. Ogden Free Library – Grant Rogers Project.
Courtney Funeral Home in Walton, is assisting with the funeral arrangements.
