IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Craig Lee

Craig Lee Watson Profile Photo

Watson

November 26, 1954 – September 2, 2025

Obituary

Craig Lee Watson, 70, of Wellington, Florida, passed away on September 2, 2025. Born in Bronxville, NY, on November 26, 1954, Craig was the beloved son of Bob and Susan Watson, and brother of Robert Watson, all of whom preceded him in death.

Craig graduated from Rollins College and proudly followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a PGA professional. His career spanned more than 30 years in the Metropolitan Section of New York, where he served as Head Professional at The Creek Club. Later, Craig joined his father at Westchester Country Club as Director of Instruction.

Craig's love for New York remained strong throughout his life. Not only was New York home to his beloved Giants and Yankees, but–most importantly–it was also where his four children were born and raised. Craig's children—Craig Jr., Colin, Kelly, and Kasey—were his greatest source of joy. He adored and was immensely proud of each of them, both as children and as adults. Craig cherished the years he spent in North Salem with his family, and he is remembered fondly in the community as a loving father, an energetic coach, and a loyal friend.

In time, Craig relocated to South Florida, where he continued to share his passion for golf. He resurrected the First Tee Palm Beach chapter before serving as head coach of the Palm Beach Atlantic University golf team for 13 years, mentoring players and fostering a love for the game in the next generation. Known for his expertise, warmth, and dedication, Craig built lifelong friendships both on and off the course.

In 2011, Craig became a proud grandfather to his first grandchild. Much to his delight, that number grew to nine. He adored his grandchildren and cherished every visit with them in New York, South Carolina, and Florida, taking great pride in his role as "Grandpa."

Craig will be remembered as a talented golfer, a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving grandfather. His friends and family will always recall his generosity, his deep love for God, family, and country, and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures—New York sports, The Blazer Pub, and a cold Miller High Life.

Craig is survived by his wife, Wendy Paige Watson; his children, Craig "CJ" Watson Jr., Colin Watson, Kelly Spillane (Patrick), Kasey Lefferts (Sean), and Kim Rodgers; and his grandchildren: Sophia, Nora, Stratton, Theodore, Thomas, Lillian, Rowyn, Lila, and Michael.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 3rd at 6:30 p.m. at The First Tee, 7301 N. Haverhill Rd, Riviera Beach, FL 33407. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The First Tee – Watson Scholarship Fund.

Craig's legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the joy he brought to all who knew him.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Craig Lee Watson, please visit our flower store.

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