Theardis Watson

The viewing will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025 from 4:00 - 6:00PM at Buggs Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 2:30PM at the funeral home.

Buggs Funeral Home & Crematory
2701 S. Harbor City Boulevard
Melbourne, Florida 32901
(321) 728-7076

Theardis Watson, affectionately known as “Mookie” and occasionally “Ted” by those who loved him, peacefully entered eternal rest on Sunday morning, July 20, 2025. He was born on December 13, 1947, in Sebring, Florida, to Rochelle Watson.

A proud graduate of E.O. Douglas High School in Sebring, Mookie went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Education from Florida Memorial University. With a heart for learning and a passion for inspiring youth, he dedicated over 40+ years to the Broward County School District, where he taught history and also served as a basketball coach—mentoring students both in the classroom and on the court. His guidance helped shape the lives of countless young people during his long and impactful career until his retirement from Blanche Ely High School in 2009.

Mookie accepted Christ as his personal Savior at an early age and lived a life rooted in faith, service, and compassion. Known for his magnetic charisma, infectious laugh, and bright smile, he had a presence that lit up every room and made everyone feel welcomed and heard.

He was also a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, where he lived out the fraternity principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Rochelle Watson; daughter, Andreka Davenport; siblings, Manzy Watson, Annie Doris Smith, Ronnie Watson, Oscar Watson, and Leila Watson; and his devoted companion of over 20+ years, Mary Singletary.

Mookie leaves behind a legacy of love, leadership, and cherished memories with his daughter, Anitra Watson-Alvarado (Carlos) of Deland; granddaughter, Desiree Davenport; great-granddaughters, Simone Frazier and Harmoni Frazier, both of Deland; brothers, Alonzo Watson (Sabrina) of West Melbourne and Victor Watson of Palm Bay; sister, Lee “Toni” Best of Melbourne; aunts, Katherine Watson of Miami and Hattie Powell (Glenn) of Melbourne; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, fraternity brothers, former students, and lifelong friends.

His impact as a father, grandfather, brother, educator, coach, and friend will continue to be felt in the lives of all who knew him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.