This week we lost a giant. Calling him a giant is an understatement
We lost a charismatic, kind, loving, serious soul committed to equity. We ALL lost someone we considered loved us most -Watson Haynes.
It is hard to describe the impact of a person who touches you so deeply with a glaze. Watson who I affectionately called my UNCLE, had a uncanny effect on everyone he met.
He was gentle but firm. Most importantly at least from my experience he was dedicated to making everyone do their best. Such a simple concept- it hard to implement.
I honor him as a man in our community, as an advocate, as a fierce warrior of opportunity, as someone who lifted others as he rose and most importantly someone who gave me a MASTER CLASS in life.
Watson was able to navigate deep waters with a smile. He always had the right words and the perfect temperament. We could all learn from someone who spent a LIFETIME of giving back.
To my uncle, friend and
comrade of GOOD trouble-You have my eternal gratitude for all you did for my family and so many others.
The Rev. Watson Haynes II, longtime head of Pinellas County Urban League, dies at 69
