LANKFORD FUNERAL HOME
220 East New York Avenue
DeLand, Florida


 Vera “Alice” Watson, 96 of DeLand, Florida passed away peacefully on October 9, 2017.  She was born at home on April 15, 1921 to Norman and Emma Lawson in Ellaville, Georgia.  She is predeceased by one sister and six brothers who she loved dearly.

Alice moved to Seville, Florida when she was 5 years old and graduated from Seville High School. On December 22, 1942 she married Irving Brantley and they had two daughters, JoAnn Abernathy and Linda Ahlers. After Irving passed away, Alice married her high school sweetheart the late Ernest “Vivian” Watson.

Alice was a woman of strong faith.  She joined Calvary Baptist Church in 1952 and was an active member, serving as church secretary and later enjoyed sending cards to members on birthdays and anniversaries.  She was also a member of WMU and looked forward to the Lottie Moon Missions banquet every year.

Alice touched many people with memories of her humble upbringing during the Depression and WW2.  She was a cafeteria lady and retired after 20 years.

Alice loved her family very much.  She is also survived by her grandchildren, Robert Haisten, David Haisten (Judy), Steve Haisten (Sheri), D.J. (Leilah), Tami Newman (Russ), Jay Ahlers (Melody), John Ahlers (Gail) and Jessica Tipton and 13 great-grandchildren and her nieces; Noclolia and Irma Harding.

Alice’s life was full.  She enjoyed visiting her family and friends, singing hymns, work search puzzles and Dancing with the Stars.  Her favorite TV show was Wheel of Fortune.  Alice spent the last years of her life at Oak Manor where she was greatly cared for and came to love her caretakers as her own family.  She died there peacefully with her daughter and granddaughter by her side.  The family appreciates everyone at Oak Manor and hospice who helped her pass peacefully.

The family will receive friends at 9am, on Friday, October 13, 2017 with Funeral Services following at 10:00am at Lankford Funeral Home in DeLand, FL. Interment will be in Seville Cemetery in Seville, Florida.