June 12, 1932- December 19, 2022

La Grange- James Oliver Watson, 90, passed away with his family by his side on December 19, 2022. He was born to the late William Henry Watson and Nannie Blackwood Watson on June 12, 1932, in Durham County. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by siblings, Coy Watson, Eddie Watson, Myrtle Koffman, Bea Erdesky, Flora Wilkins, Nan Wilson, Viola Johnson, Foy Watson, Roy Watson, and Margie Lee Watson. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War.

An all-around outdoorsman, Jim enjoyed time spent working with his hands in the soil. He would often be found in his yard and garden. He was never happier than when he had a fishing pole or shotgun in hand.

Much of life for Jim revolved around his love of music. He not only played his instruments, but built them as well. He had three banjos and ten mandolins of his own creation. Bluegrass and country music were the sounds Jim tapped his feet to.

Jim was a “jack of all trades”, but also a master of many. His knowledge of woodworking and auto-body restoration were second to none. Woodworking and problem solving were as natural to him as breathing and his ingenuity was unmatched.

Nothing was more important to Jim than his family. He was devoted husband for over 66 years to his wife, Esther. Always a loving father, Jim continued to be a source of strength and knowledge as his sons grew into adulthood. There was nothing Jim couldn’t help his boys with.

A service of love and remembrance will be held by the graveside at Fairview Cemetery at on Wednesday, December 21, 2022, at 11 a.m. . The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

Jim is survived by his wife of 66 years, Esther Wade Watson; sons, Barry J. Watson and wife, Debbie, and her children, their spouses, and four grandchildren, and Vince J. Watson and wife, Charlotte; siblings, Catherine Bowling, Robert Watson, Clifton Watson, Nonnie Rose, and Mable Laws.

In lieu of flowers, Jim’s family requests memorial contributions to be made to Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 107 Handley Park Court, Goldsboro, NC 27534. The family wishes to extend their appreciation of the staff and the tremendous care they were given during Jim’s time spent there. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.