A funeral service for Jeanette Elizabeth Watson Osborne, age 92, of Fayetteville, TN, will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Fayetteville, with Pastor Doug Farris officiating. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be from 1 p.m. until the time of service at the church.
Jeanette was born on January 5, 1933, in Laurinburg, NC, to the late Davis Cleveland Watson and Viola Britt Watson. After meeting and marrying James Osborne, the couple moved to Illinois, where they raised their family. Upon James’s retirement, they returned to Lincoln County—home for James and soon home for Jeanette as well.
Jeanette worked for more than 20 years as a facilitator with the South Central Human Resource Agency, serving in programs such as Head Start and housing. She found great fulfillment in helping others and was deeply proud of the work she did. A faithful member of First Baptist Church, Jeanette was actively involved in many ministries and cherished her time with the YY’s.
Jeanette cared deeply for her family and was a loving mother and grandmother. She was known for sending thoughtful care packages, a simple but meaningful way she shared her love and encouragement. She knew her Bible well and studied it faithfully, living out her faith through kindness, generosity, and service to others. She passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, at her home.
She is survived by her children, Kathi (James) Hutnik, Jana (Bill) Range, Terri (Dennis) Falletti, Robin (Dave) Osborne-Grue, Lisa (Edward) Marthaler, Fred Osborne, and Jimmy (Sonja) Osborne; 24 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members who will cherish her memory.
In addition to her parents, Jeanette was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James C. Osborne; brothers, Alton and Angus Watson; and grandchildren, Ryan L. Range and Clarke A. Marthaler
Memorial donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Fayetteville Missionary Fund, P.O. Box 623, Fayetteville, TN 37334.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jeanette Elizabeth Watson Osborne.
3 Comments To "Jeanette Elizabeth Watson Osborne"
#1 Comment By Joe Luther On December 28, 2025 @ 9:31 am
Jimmy and Jeanette were good friends and will always remember them. Will be praying for the family. Joe Luther
#2 Comment By Robbie Bates On December 28, 2025 @ 4:37 pm
Mr. and Mrs. Osborne were both wonderful people, that I’ve had the privilege of knowing since I was a teenager. When I was around them, both would usually offer good advice, always mixed with a bit of humor, for good measure.
Jeanette and I became closer once I was an adult with children of my own, and I considered her a dear friend, and confidant. She had a wonderful personality, a very endearing nature, and was quick witted, all of which I truly admired. She never hung up the phone that she didn’t tell me she loved me…and I loved her too. She will be greatly missed.
My sincerest condolences and prayers to all of you during this time. May God bless you in the days ahead.
#3 Comment By Vickie Emmons On January 2, 2026 @ 9:40 am
Fred and Jimmy I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. Sending prayers through this difficult time.