Johnnie Mae "Bird" Watson

Johnnie Mae Watson “Bird” was born on February 1, 1952, in Sheffield, Alabama to Eddie “Pete” Whiteside (deceased) and Mrs. Annie Ruth Whiteside. Bird gained her wings on September 20, 2023, at the age of 71. She committed her life to Jesus Christ, her Lord and Savior at an early age. She was a wonderful wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She had so many friends and was well loved in the Gate Six community and surrounding areas.  Having her in your presence was always a comical moment with dancing and a good time. Never a dull moment.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Kelly Watson; her only son, Michael Dale Whiteside, two sisters, Annie Lovelace, and Marilyn Denise Whiteside; two brothers, Curtis Whiteside and Clarence Pritchard, Jr.; one grandson, Jahmir Jerome Summerhill.

She leaves to cherish her memories: mother, Annie Ruth Whiteside, Muscle Shoals, Alabama, two sisters, Dorothy McClain (Lenoris) and Lender Whiteside (John). Three brothers, Eddie Whiteside, Jr. (Gail) Modesto, CA, Ricky Whiteside (Teresa) and Earl Whiteside of Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Four children Tonya Whiteside-Smith (Shawn), Florence, Alabama, Tammy Russell (George), Marysville, Ohio, Latasha Watson (Kevin), Tuscumbia, Alabama.

15 Grandchildren: Tonya- LaQuece Whiteside, LeShannon Harris, Raheem Harris, Ebonee McDaniel, and Amayah McDaniel; Michael- Xavier “Jed” Whiteside, Kayla N. Smithers, Marlon D. Whiteside, and Deven N. Jones. Tammy- Demarie’ “Yae” Ricks, Deandre “Flock” Ricks, Tyleesha Russell, Tyshondra Russell. Latasha- Alexus Watson and Ardaysha Watson.

A host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, friends, and the Gate 6 community.

Special recognition to those who were there during her fight. She was a trooper to the end.

Collis McGee for always making time to play cards and making her eat.

Teresa Robinson, a cousin and supportive friend, whom was there for all the appointments and meal preps.

Robert “Bill” McClain (Tracy) as special friends.

Lender Whiteside and Dorothy McClain for being there for support through it all. We love you!!!!

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