Tribute

On February 6, 2026,  June Shirley Watson (nee Franklin) of Oliver, BC, passed away peacefully after a short stay at Mariposa Gardens. After navigating many serious and chronic health issues, the family is relieved that June is no longer suffering.

June was born May 20, 1933, in Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, to parents Mae (Alice) and Percy Franklin. She was raised in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan, where she met and married Percy (Harold) Watson in 1952 – five children followed soon after. In 1970, the Watson clan moved to Elmira, Ontario, for Percy’s work. As June stayed home to raise her children, she was able to pick up some part-time work as a bookkeeper or answering phones for Hadco Water Well Service.

After the children flew the coop, June owned and operated a small gift shop that specialized in folk art supplies made by Percy, along with other retail items. She also taught folk art painting from her shop.

Percy and June moved to Oliver in 1993 to retire. Several family members followed them to BC. June was an avid reader and always had a vegetable garden and flower beds to keep her busy. She baked the best bread, donuts and cinnamon buns. June very much enjoyed family time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren!  It was June’s character and spirit that made her such a special person. Although not religious, she was very spiritual. She was incredibly non-judgmental, a voice of reason and wisdom and a safe haven in the storm. Her door was always unlocked in case a friend or family member (or stray cat!) needed a place to stay, a hot meal or just a little visit.

June is predeceased by Percy, husband of 56 years; daughter Dawna Marciano; granddaughter Christine Cherry; and her only sibling, brother Roy Franklin. She is survived by son Blaine Watson, spouse Todd Smith; daughter Brenda Watson, spouse Gary Horlock; son David Watson, spouse Alison Kobelak; and daughter Bev O’Reilly, spouse Shawn Yelland; 9 grandchildren (Tammy, James, Adam, Sarah, Benjamin, Jasmin, Anthony, Brendon, Logan); 8 great-grandchildren (Brooklyn, Jordan, Kyle, Madison, Jaydon, Jackson, Percy, Lindy, Rylan) and 2 on the way!

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am on March 8, 2026, in the Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service Chapel at 5855 Hemlock Street, Oliver, BC with a reception to follow at 5595 Yarrow street.