Mary Lee Watterson

Mary Lee Watterson

Mary Lee Watterson, 77, of Kingsport, departed this life for a heavenly life after a brief illness on Monday, October 19, 2026.

Mary started her culinary career at Oakwood Cafeteria in Kingsport; she later continued her career at ETSU as head chef. After 25 years of culinary service, she retired, leaving with a lifetime of friends. Mary later changed career paths and continued her love for taking care of people while serving the community at KCMC for over 20 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Doctor "Frank" Watterson; parents, Callie Mae Tarter and Charles Cornett; daughter, Phyllis Denise McMaster; sisters, Karen Schofield, Kimberly Bell, and Benetta Ealy.

Mary left many to cherish her memory: son, Phillip (Tosha) Watterson of Kingsport; daughter, Stacy Watterson (special friend James Mills) of Jacksonville, NC; sister, Ramona (Will) McClintock; brother, Raymond Bell, both of Kingsport; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; special friends Tina Slaughter and Kim Ray; along with a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and family.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Mafair United Methodist Church. A celebration of life service will follow with Rev. Billy Pierson officiating.

Interment for family will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Mountain Home National Cemetery. Those wishing to attend are asked meet at the cemetery by 9:50am.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to everyone who has comforted the Watterson family during this time.

To express condolences to the family please visit our website at www.cartertrent.com. Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Kingsport is serving the Watterson family.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Kingsport is serving the Watterson family.