The Bethany Community Center, a longtime fixture in Kansas City, will soon bear the name of a dedicated community servant. In honor of its former director, the center will be officially renamed the Earl Watson Sr. Community Center.
A renaming ceremony honoring Watson is slated for June 22 at 10 a.m. The ceremony, held at the center, 1120 Central Ave., will feature guest speakers and Watson himself before revealing new signage and presenting Watson with a plaque.
Watson served as the community center’s director for more than two decades and worked within the parks department for 32 years until retiring just last year — in his 90s. His tireless efforts and commitment to serving the youth and underserved populations of Kansas City, KS, have earned him widespread respect and admiration.
“Mr. Watson was someone who dedicated 32 years to the community and was always present,” says Shaya Lockett, director of Wyandotte County Recreation. “He would come early or stay late for the betterment of the kids.”
Community members petitioned the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, KS, for the name change. They cited Watson’s exceptional dedication and numerous contributions to the area as justification for the honor.
Watson’s service extends far beyond his role at the community center. A graduate of Sumner Academy’s class of 1949, he went on to become a U.S. Army drill sergeant. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own local businesses, including 10th Street Thrifty Foods and 10th Street Car Wash.
Throughout his career, Watson wore many hats in service to his community. He operated Parkwood Pool — the only public pool in KCK — where he held lifeguard certification and directed the Parkwood back-to-school backpack giveaway. His commitment to youth development shone through his work promoting the Junior Cadet Program, helping administer local youth activities, and serving as a coach in the Sumner Academy Summer Night Hoops program.
“He is very well respected in the community,” says Lockett. “He was always willing to go the extra mile and he really wanted to see all kids be able to participate in activities.”
The community center’s current name derives from its proximity to the former Bethany Methodist Hospital. The name Bethany was subsequently applied to a nearby street, the park, and the community center.
Given the historical context and Watson’s significant impact, community leaders viewed renaming the center after him as a fitting tribute. The name change will honor a man who dedicated his life to serving the area’s residents, particularly its underserved youth.
Mr Watson was well known always there when someone needed help always seeing that the kids had somewhere to go and something do also made sure the kids where feed during summer at the pool love you Mr Watson
Congratulations Big Guy God Bless you and your Beautiful Family Thank you 🙏🏾