Hilary Watson, wife of eight-time major champion Tom Watson, lost her battle with pancreatic cancer and passed away Wednesday at age 63.
Hilary was diagnosed in October 2017 and went through numerous rounds of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. In May 2018, Hilary went through an extensive surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and was soon deemed cancer-free. However, the cancer returned shortly after, as did the rigorous treatment process.
We offer condolences to one of the game's greats, Tom Watson, on the passing of his lovely wife, Hilary. pic.twitter.com/kKmCMd7cNE
— USGA (@USGA) November 28, 2019
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Hilary Watson, wife of @TomWatsonPGA, our @TheOpen Ambassador. Our thoughts are with Tom and his family at this sad time. pic.twitter.com/3YDK2yH7Sp
— The R&A (@RandA) November 28, 2019
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of a very special lady Hillary Watson. Our deepest condolences to Tom and family at this time.
— Ernie Els (@TheBig_Easy) November 28, 2019
One of our game’s legendary figures, Tom Watson, lost his wife Hilary yesterday after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Our thoughts are with Tom and his family. pic.twitter.com/DqEl2KRXIA
— PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) November 28, 2019
Very sad to hear of the passing of Hilary Watson, wife of @TomWatsonPGA, thoughts are with Tom and his family at this sad time.
— Justin ROSE (@JustinRose99) November 28, 2019
The Watsons flew back to their home in Stillwell, Kansas to put Hilary in hospice, where she remained until she passed just before midnight Thanksgiving Day.
The family will hold a memorial service Dec. 4 in Leawood, Kansas at United Methodist Church of the Resurrection. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be given to the Children’s Bereavement Camp of Crossroads Hospice Kansas or to United Methodist Church of the Resurrection.
