Obituary of Garfield Anthony Watson
Garfield Anthony Watson, lovingly known to many as Tony, entered into the care of the Lord on January 17, 2026, at the age of 54.
Tony was born on April 28, 1971, in St. Catherine, Jamaica, where he was raised before his family later moved to the United States. He valued education deeply and pursued it with dedication throughout his life. Tony attended Irvington High School and continued his studies at Essex County College, later enrolling at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He ultimately earned his bachelor’s degree from Centenary University, a reflection of his lifelong love for learning and self-improvement.
Tony used his education and strong work ethic to build a successful career in records management. He began humbly as a mailroom attendant at Novartis, where his commitment and diligence led him to steadily rise through the ranks. After 25 years of service, he became an integral part of the company’s records department. He later continued his professional journey at AbbVie, where he earned the title of Supervisor of Records Management, a role that reflected both his expertise and leadership.
Outside of work, Tony truly embraced life. He was an avid traveler who found joy in exploring the world, reconnecting with his roots, and spending time with loved ones. He cherished the sun and the sand and found peace and relaxation by the ocean, where he felt most at ease.
Music was another of Tony’s great passions. With a wide-ranging musical taste, he held a special love for dancehall reggae and hip hop. More than just a listener, Tony was a gifted songwriter who poured his thoughts, emotions, and experiences into his music, creating songs meant to resonate with others. His creativity extended beyond music as well—Tony also wrote books, crafting children’s stories filled with imagination and color.
Tony will be remembered not only for his accomplishments, but for the memories he leaves behind: his brilliant smile, spontaneous spirit, generous nature, and loyal heart. His presence brought warmth and light to those around him, and his legacy will live on in the lives he touched.
It is now up to his family to carry on his legacy of love and compassion. Tony leaves behind his beloved daughters, Lailah and Alexia Watson, his former wife, Gillian Watson, his siblings, Vivette Watson and Courtney Aquart, his niece Gianna Forrester, his nephews Johari and Jason Aquart, and his mother, Lena Watson, as well as numerous cousins, many “adopted” nieces and nephews, friends, and colleagues.
A funeral service to honor Tony will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 11 am at First Holiness Church, 9 Saddle Road, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927. Please join us in celebrating his life, and leave a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to continue to let Tony’s light shine!
