James William Watson

James William Watson, 88, of Vestavia Hills, AL passed away on August 25, 2017. He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Bettye Clark Watson, parents Mattie Lynn and Joseph Oliver Watson, and brother Adrian Watson. "Jim" is survived by his son William Clark Watson (Debbie), daughter Vangi Watson Manasco (Rick), grandchildren Melanie Watson Anderson (Reynolds), Beth Ann Watson Hill (Graham), Stacy Manasco Watts (Lee), Mailon Watson Manasco, and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by three brothers (Horace, Joe and David) and one sister (Joan Rawson). Jim attended Phillips High School, Howard College (Samford University), and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He served in the Air Force Reserves in the early 1950s and retired from Tom Williams (Drennen) Cadillac after more than thirty-five years of diligent service. He worshipped his Savior Jesus Christ as a member of Shades Mountain Baptist Church for more than 63 years.

Following a family burial, a memorial service will be held at 11:30 AM on Monday, August 28, 2017 at Shades Mountain Baptist Church, with Dr. Charles Carter officiating. After the service, the family will welcome the opportunity to receive friends. The family would like to thank Dr. Duane Shroyer, the St. Vincent's Hospital Oncology Unit and St. Martin's in the Pines for the professional and compassionate care they provided to Mr. Watson. Memorial contributions may be made to Shades Mountain Baptist Church or the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements under the direction of Johns-Ridout's Mortuary-Elmwood Chapel, Birmingham, AL.