Mary Ann Watson Wyble

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that the Watson family announces the peaceful passing of our beloved aunt, Mary Ann Watson Wyble, on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 72.
Born on August 11, 1953, in New Iberia, Mary Ann was the cherished daughter of the late Woodrow "Walley" Watson, Sr. and the late Sarah Jeffery Watson.A lifelong believer in the power of education, Mary Ann graduated from New Iberia Senior High School with the Class of 1971 before pursuing her calling at McNeese State University, where she earned her degree in Education in 1975. Never one to stop learning, she later received a Master's Degree in Education from Louisiana State University and completed her Reading Specialist Certification at the University of Southwestern Louisiana in 1986.For thirty-five remarkable years, Mary Ann devoted her life to shaping young minds throughout St. Martin Parish. She began her career teaching elementary students at St. Martinville Elementary and Stephensville Elementary Schools, where she spent twenty-two years nurturing and encouraging countless children during their most formative years. She later answered the call to educational leadership, serving as principal for thirteen years. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to excellence earned her the distinguished honor of St. Martin Parish Principal of the Year in 2010, an accomplishment she treasured deeply. Thousands of students, teachers, and families were blessed by her wisdom, patience, and genuine love for education.While Mary's professional accomplishments were extraordinary, those who knew her best understood that her greatest treasures were found outside the classroom. She cherished every opportunity to spend time with her family and found peace in God's beautiful outdoors. Retirement blessed her and her beloved husband, Johnny, with countless hours on the water, where friendly competitions over who caught the biggest fish became treasured traditions. Her nephew, Woody, fondly recalled the many fishing trips they shared, laughing as Mary Ann confidently reminded him that she was "The Bassmaster" and he simply couldn't compete. Those moments were filled with laughter, love, and memories that will forever be cherished. She was also an accomplished deer hunter whose impressive trophy mounts reflected both her patience and love for nature.Faith was the cornerstone of Mary Ann's life. A lifelong and devoted parishioner of St. Peter's Catholic Church, she generously shared her time and talents through numerous ministries. She faithfully served as a lector, Eucharistic minister, and dedicated fourteen years teaching in the parish's RCIA program, helping guide countless individuals on their journey of faith. Her quiet devotion and servant's heart touched many lives and reflected the love of Christ she sought to share each day.Above every accomplishment and every hobby, Mary Ann treasured her family. Whether gathered around a table enjoying a home-cooked meal, sharing stories of years gone by, celebrating holidays, or simply spending an afternoon together, she found her greatest happiness surrounded by those she loved. Her warmth, kindness, infectious smile, and unwavering love created memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her.Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in our faith and God's promise of eternal life. We rejoice knowing Mary Ann has been reunited with her beloved Johnny and all those who have gone before her. Until that glorious reunion, we will honor her memory by living the values she so beautifully exemplified—faith, family, kindness, and love.