From Houstonchronicle · · 1m 40s
Susan Watford's Life and Death
Texas woman killed on cruise ship after years of domestic abuse.
In brief
Texas woman killed on cruise ship after years of domestic abuse. Susan Watford, 31, died after being choked by husband Jason Watford on a Galveston cruise ship, who was charged with murder. Originally reported by Houstonchronicle.
Susan Watford's background
Susan Watford, 31, boarded the MSC Seascape cruise ship in Galveston with her husband and 1 year-old daughter last Sunday.
Fleeing Amish community
Susan Watford ran away from her home in an Amish community in New York at age 13 or 14 and moved to Missouri.
Foster care journey
She lived with foster children, two parents and their three biological kids at Coyote Hill Foster Care Ministries in Harrisburg, Missouri.
Education and work ethic
Susan earned her GED in six months after starting from an eighth grade level and worked three jobs while studying for a business degree.
Domestic abuse history
Jason Watford, 48, charged with assault causing bodily injury in 2024, reportedly abused Susan before the cruise.
Cruise ship incident
Susan Watford was found dead in their room after an argument escalated from a restaurant on the cruise ship to their room.
Murder charge and custody
Jason Watford was charged with murder the next day and remains in federal custody for a Monday court appearance.
Family's reaction
Charlie Marshman, a former foster parent, described Susan as an 'incredible human' who helped others and gave people second chances.
Family's tribute
Susan's family posted a social media tribute saying she was a 'painful reminder' of domestic violence faced by women.
Current status
Jason Watford is set to appear in federal court on Monday, charged with Susan Watford's murder.
The main idea
Susan Watford, 31, died after being choked by husband Jason Watford on a Galveston cruise ship, who was charged with murder.
