Suzanne Watson

We have learned with sadness of the passing of Suzanne Watson, a long-time supporter of the University who was also involved in our governance for many years. Suzanne peacefully passed away on Wednesday 26 November 2025, aged 92 years

Suzanne Mary Smith was born in Leicester on 12 December 1932. She was educated at Penrhos College in North Wales, where she excelled in science, and in 1953 she graduated from the University of Birmingham with a BSc in Bacteriology. Six years later, on the retirement of their father, Suzanne and her two brothers took over the family business, fondly remembered Leicester dairy Kirby and West. Suzanne's scientific knowledge helped to modernise the company, and she also served as Director and Company Secretary for many years. Within the dairy industry she held many prestigious posts, including serving as President of the Society of Dairy Technology in 1982-83.

Under her two married names of first Suzanne Moore and then Suzanne Watson, she contributed to the University of Leicester's governance for many years: as a Member of Council from 1982 to 1997, and then as a Member of Court from 2002 until her death. She attended many University events, including the Benefactors' Reception in 2016, 2017 and 2018, the Legacy Guild Afternoon Tea in 2016, 2018 and 2019, the Legacy Guild Carol Concert in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017, and the Silver Hearts Dinners in 2018 and 2019.

Suzanne was a generous and longstanding philanthropic donor, supporting the University Library in 2005 as part of the Nicholas Corah-led appeal, leading to the naming of the 'Kirby and West Special Collections Suite'. Suzanne also supported the Cardiovascular Research Centre appeal in 2012, the Attenborough Arts Centre appeal in 2013, the Student Opportunities Fund in 2015 and 2016, and the 'Patients First Unit' at the Centre for Medicine in 2017. She also funded a Centenary Scholarship in 2018. In recognition of her outstanding support, in 2018 Suzanne was given the University’s highest donor honour at the time, membership of the Silver Hearts Circle.

Suzanne was a keen driver and a member of the Institute of Advanced Motorists. She served as a Magistrate in Leicester for 26 years, retiring from the bench when she turned 70. She was also a dedicated bridge player. Her second husband Fred Watson, whom she married in 1990, passed away in 2017. She is survived by children, grandchildren and an extended family.

• Suzanne's funeral service will take place at Great Glen Crematorium on Wednesday 17 December at 10.30am. Please wear bright clothing to celebrate Suzanne's life. No flowers please. Donations, if desired, will be split between Parkinson's UK and Leicester Cathedral. c/o AJ Adkinson and Son Funeral Directors