Donna Mae (Smith) Watson (2024)

BENTON, HOFFROGGE, MARSH, ROBINSON, SMITH, WATERS, WATSON

Posted By: Pat Hochstetler
Date: 1/14/2025 at 08:06:54

Neptune Society of Iowa
West Des Moines, Iowa

November 28, 1947 – September 12, 2024

Donna Mae Watson passed away surrounded by family on Thursday, September 12, 2024.

Donna was born to Forrest and Bessie (Hoffrogge) Smith November 28, 1947, in Decatur, Illinois. She attended Earlham High School, graduating in 1966. Following high school, Donna worked in Des Moines as a secretary to an attorney, to the president of a car company, at the Iowa Department of Public Instruction, as well as at the Iowa Commission for the Blind. Donna was a partner in originating and owning Watercrest Printing Company in Minburn as well the Italian Villa in Adel. The Adel Washboard, the Rendezvous Lounge and Olga Johansen's were other businesses Donna and her first husband developed/owned in Adel.

Donna enjoyed gambling and taught blackjack to others through her side business Winners Gambling. Donna enjoyed traveling and played in blackjack and craps tournaments in Vegas. Donna attended DMACC, majoring in Human Services and was certified in Domestic Abuse Counseling.

Donna was later married to Charles Michael Watson on June 26, 1993. Donna and Charlie shared the joy of traveling and took several road trips during their years together. Donna really enjoyed spending time with her granddaughters and having family dinners. She loved trying new recipes and developed an interest in genealogy. Donna grew sunflowers and enjoyed watching Iowa women’s basketball and most recently the Indiana Fever. She will be remembered by those she loved for her great sense of humor, Sunday family dinners and how much she deeply cared for those in her life.

Donna is survived by her husband, Charlie Watson of Waukee, IA, former husband David Waters and their daughters, Scotti (John Benton) Waters Benton of Des Moines, IA and Angie (Corey Robinson) Waters of Adel, IA; five granddaughters, Gracie (Casey) of Centennial, CO, Sophia (Cody) of Booneville, IA, Morgan (Jayden) of Adel, IA, Harlyee and Elaysia of Adel, IA; she is further survived by her brother Frank (Sandi) Smith of Earlham, IA and sister Gretchen (Gene) Marsh of Menlo, IA along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Donna also leaves behind her Italian Villa family that she spoke fondly of throughout the years.

Donna was welcomed home by her dad, Forrest “Smitty” and mom, Bessie Smith, niece Misty Smith and many aunts, uncles and other loved ones that went before her.

At this time Donna has chosen no services but would like to invite friends out to eat at a later time.