In a poignant twist of fate, the scientific and journalism communities are mourning the passing of James Watson, co-discoverer of the DNA double helix, while simultaneously celebrating an unexpected gift from the late journalist Sharon Begley. Known for her incisive reporting and deep understanding of science, Begley had spent years covering Watson’s work—and, unbeknownst to many, had prepared an advance obituary for him before her own passing.

The advance obituary, now shared posthumously, has been hailed as a masterful and heartfelt tribute, capturing the complexities of Watson’s life, achievements, and legacy with the clarity and nuance only Begley could provide. Colleagues at STAT expressed both sorrow and gratitude, recognizing this as a final, enduring gift from a journalist whose voice continues to resonate long after her own untimely passing.

Readers and admirers of both Watson and Begley are finding solace in her words, a testament to the enduring impact of thoughtful reporting and the power of a well-told life story. Sharon Begley may be gone, but her dedication to truth, insight, and humanizing science lives on in every sentence she left behind.