“RIP to…Leader”: Devastated by Huge Loss, Heartbroken Magic Johnson Mourns Death of 72YO Civil Rights Icon

An entire city was saddened on Monday as Detroit mourned the loss of its ‘Mother’, JoAnne Watson. Michigan native Magic Johnson was one of the first to recognize her unparalleled impact on society. In fact, in 2019, her works earned her the Spirit of Detroit, formally honoring her as the ‘Supreme Mother of Our Beloved Community’. A social icon and an activist in his own right, Johnson paid his respects to her.

The Detroit icon was a civil rights activist and a unique, loving leader to the people. She played an integral role during the United Nations World Conference that forged the fight against racism. Sadly, she passed away on Monday at the age of 72. The cause of her death wasn’t revealed.

Magic Johnson pays his respects to Detroit icon

JoAnn Watson devoted her existence to public service. Watson was more than just an activist, though. She served on the Detroit City Council from 2003 through 2013. In her first run for office, she defeated “Inspector Todd” from the ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ movies, Gil Hill, who was the former Detroit police homicide chief.

Likewise, her life deserved to be celebrated, and so Magic Johnson wrote a heartfelt message highlighting her invaluable contributions.

“RIP to longtime faith leader,” wrote Johnson. “Rev. Watson was passionate about making Detroit better for the voiceless and underserved and we are so grateful for her lifelong work. Cookie and I are praying for the entire Watson family during this difficult time.”

From a ban on smoking in public places to a ‘Water Affordability Plan’ to aid low-income residents, Watson ordered multiple city ordinances. Moreover, Watson gave a eulogy at the funeral of the ‘Queen of Soul’ Aretha Franklin in 2018.

Additionally, she was the first woman to serve as the executive director of the NAACP’s Detroit branch, which bills itself as the nation’s largest and most active branch. Notably, they are the same organization that presented Dwyane Wade with President’s Award at the 54th NAACP Image Awards.

A revolutionary lost but not forgotten

Watson gave her hand in several reparation programs. Her impeccable resume proves she was a stalwart, a pioneer in her field. For a decade until 2013, JoAnn Watson stayed in office as a member of the Detroit City Council. Her defining moment arguably came in 2001. Watson was the former delegate for the United Nations World Conference on Racism.

Her expertise and longing for social justice helped paved the way for fighting inequality and racial injustice. Watson was serving as the board president of Unity Urban Ministerial School at the time of her death. Additionally, she assumed the duties of a senior pastor, was an on-air personality, and was a professor at the Wayne County Community College District.

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JoAnn Watson was a trailblazer in the realm of social activism. Born in the city of Detroit, she stuck to her community. There was only one motive for her actions, the betterment of the city and the country. She was an unshakable pillar who went beyond her means to ensure the wellness of people.

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