Following the promotion of John Francis Whealon to Archbishop of Hartford in 1968, Watson was named Bishop of Erie on March 17, 1969.[1] He was accused of being too slow to implement the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, and met considerable opposition from the diocesan clergy.[2] During his tenure, he ordained 88 priests, but was forced to close or merge several Catholic schools.[2]
After breaking his hip and undergoing surgery,[2] he retired on July 16, 1982.[1] He died 9 years later at age 81.
