Michael K. Watson

Michael K. Watson, peacefully transitioned into the arms of Jesus while surrounded by his family on Thursday morning, March 13, 2025.

Michael was born in Catskill Memorial Hospital, June 16, 1973. He was raised in Catskill and attended Irving School and Catskill Middle School. 

Michael was deeply loved by his family, especially his mother, with whom he shared an unbreakable bond throughout his life. As the first grandchild of Virginia and Willie B., Michael was what some would call spoiled. But not just by his grandparents and mother.  His aunts and uncles spoiled him as well.  His connection with his mom remained a constant source of comfort and support. Even at 51 years old, Michael affectionately continued to call his mother "mommy," a testament to the enduring love and closeness they shared. His relationship with his mom was not only a reflection of his love for her but also a symbol of the nurturing care that defined how he was raised.  Michael’s love for his mother was central to his life, shaping the person he became and leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.

The family moved to Albany in 1989 and joined with the Bethany Baptist Church. He was baptized on February 4, 1990. He was a member of the Young Laymen and was very active in Sunday School. He was on the Basketball team for the E.B.M.C traveling to play basketball against other Laymen. He enjoyed and looked forward to going all the conferences across the state. 

He attended and graduated from Bishop Maginn High School in 1992. While there he had a love of all things basketball, Jordan, music, and laughter. He was the biggest Michael Jordan fan and except for his height, you couldn’t tell him he wasn’t Michael Jordan the 2nd.  He played on the basketball team at Maginn and prided himself of being able to dunk like Spud Webb. 

Michael had a passion for cooking, a love he inherited from his grandfather, Willie B. At every family gathering, he was the one manning the grill. Michael made the best burgers, and everyone knew that if he was grilling, you’d better not touch it until he was done. He was also famous for his delicious sweet and sassy wings. 

Over the years, Michael worked at various restaurants, driven by his passion for cooking. He was incredibly creative with the menu, often adding his own unique twist to dishes, even if they weren’t officially approved by the company. Despite that, customers would always request the dishes prepared the way Mike made them.

Michael had a magnetic personality that drew people in. He loved to write rhymes and rap.  You could catch him rapping and showing his nephews how to breakdance. He may have been small but had a huge personality. He was easy to get along with and could connect with anyone. He would have been perfect for a role in The Great Debater. A passionate reader with a wealth of knowledge, he always welcomed a challenge to his views. He was an inspiring motivator, at times that meant talking your ear off until you were so annoyed you had to get up and just do what he said.

For the past three years, Michael worked for Albany County Sheriff’s Department at the Albany County Jail, a job he didn’t just enjoy but truly loved. It was all he ever talked about. He believed that if you find a job you love, you’ll never work a day in your life. He was so dedicated, he never wanted to miss a day. Michael could often be seen riding his electric bike up and down Route 7, even braving the winter snow at times. After he was hit by a car while riding his bike, he began riding to and from work with his brother every day. 

Michael shared an extraordinary bond with his siblings, one that was built on deep love and support. Each of them played a unique role in looking out for one another. Despite being the youngest, the first call was often to their sister who Michael affectionately called his little, big sister. The connection Michael had with his siblings was unbreakable and unlike any other. He loved them fiercely and would go to any lengths to support and protect them. No matter the situation, they knew they could always count on Michael, and he felt the same way about them. He forged a relationship with his stepfather who became a great support system, mentor and spiritual guide throughout his life. 

Michael wasn’t your typical father by any means; he was the cool dad, always bringing a sense of fun and adventure to his family. He wasn’t focused on following the traditional rules or routines. Instead, he made sure to create moments of joy and laughter with his children. He loved each one of his children.  He was always proud of his kids talking about whatever they were doing at the time. Playing basketball, swimming, just spending quality time together, Michael was all about making lasting memories. He had a unique way of connecting with his kids, treating them like friends and partners in fun rather than just as a parent-child dynamic. His approach to fatherhood was all about enjoying the journey together and cherishing every moment.  His children will always remember the laughter, the love, and the unforgettable experiences he gave them.

He leaves to cherish his memory. His mother and father Debra and Alan Williams. His siblings Marcus, Odaysia (Ben). His children Kai’im (Rose), Tajae, Kaiyon, Heaven, Xander.  Grandchildren Amiah, Alina, Gianna, Naziah, Giovanni.  Nephews, Christian, Jayden. Grandmothers: Virginia Watson & Dorothy Williams.  Special Aunts and Uncles: Patricia (Darren) Durr, Pamela Miller, Dennis(Collette) Watson, Teddy(Charm)Watson & Corey Watson. Godbrother: Corey Ivery, Godsister: Lauren(Emanuel) Mayben. Several aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends.

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