May 5, 2024, 72, Fremont —

Annette Smith Watson, 72, formerly of Fremont went to her heavenly home Sunday, May 5, 2024, at UNC Health Wayne in Goldsboro.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at noon at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Goldsboro.

Mrs. Watson was born in Wayne County on June 27, 1951, to the late James Roy Smith Sr. and Eva Mooring Smith.  Her husband was the former pastor of Newton Grove Church of God, where she was a dedicated pastor’s wife.  Her dedication continued in helping as her husband later served as Chaplain for the prison ministry for the State of North Carolina.  Mrs. Watson was a current member of Patetown Church of God.  She was a true pastor’s wife and did many behind-the-scenes work because she loved her husband and mostly served her Lord and Savior.

She is survived by her loving husband, Reverend J. Steve Watson; two daughters, Stephanie Rhyne of Goldsboro and Angela Clayton and husband, Bobby of Goldsboro; one brother, Billy Smith and wife, Jane of Goldsboro; one sister, Hope Smith and husband, Reggie of Goldsboro; one sister-in-law, Margie Smith of Goldsboro; six grandchildren, Kelly Bode (Joe), Britney Rhyne (Greg), Reagan Scheu (Clay), Christian Scheu (Sierra), Jonathan Clayton (Hailey) and Adalyn “Addie” Bennett and nine great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Watson was preceded in death by her brother, James Smith, grandson, Bailey Scheu, and son-in-law, Kevin Rhyne.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, from 6 until 7: 30 p.m. at Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro and at other times at 107 Riverbend Place in Goldsboro.

Services entrusted to the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.