Eagan - Carole Anne Watson (née Kirtley), age 79, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, in Eagan, Minnesota. Born on November 23, 1946, in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England, Carole began her life across the Atlantic before embarking on a journey that would take her around the world. In 1968, she moved to Winnipeg, Canada, where she met Dwight Watson. Their shared passion for travel and adventure brought them together through their work as reservation agents for Northwest Airlines. When the airline closed their Winnipeg office, Carole and Dwight seized the opportunity to relocate and begin a new chapter in Minnesota. They were married on March 10, 1979. Carole's career with Northwest Airlines not only provided professional fulfillment but also allowed her and Dwight to explore many parts of the world together. Their travels were a cherished part of their life together and reflected Carole's adventurous spirit and appreciation for different cultures. At home in Minnesota, Carole took great joy in maintaining a vibrant flower garden and found peace reading on her deck while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. These quiet moments reflected her deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures.

Above all else, Carole was devoted to her family. She was a loving wife to Dwight Watson; a caring mother to Angela Langason and her husband Edmund Langason, Douglas Watson and his wife Amy Watson, and Rosemary Van Dyk and her husband Sean Van Dyk; a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren; and a delighted great-grandmother to one great-grandchild. She is also remembered by her brother Ian Kirtley. She was preceded in death by her parents William Kirtley and Mary Kirtley (née Simpson), and brother William Kirtley.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff at Morning Glory Home Care and the Hospice staff of Park Nicollet for their compassionate care during Carole's final days.

Carole's warmth, love of travel, and devotion to family will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort and peace to those whose lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 4, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 07:00 PM at the Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Pkwy, Eagan 55123, with a dedication at 5:00 PM.