James Ralph Watson, age 85, of U.S. 19-E South in Spruce Pine, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2026 at the Cranberry House.
Born on March 27, 1940 in Avery County, he was the son of the late Ray and Vaudie Dillinger Watson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters; Anna Mae and Lena and his brother; Buddy. James was a member of the Bethel Missionary Baptist Church and was retired from Coates-American.
James loved his wife and family. He was a great husband, father and father-in-law. He enjoyed traveling and visiting family and friends. He also enjoyed being outdoors, fishing and camping and also going to yard sales and equipment sales. He particularly enjoyed his daughter-in-law Aly’s cooking.
Left to cherish his memories are his wife; Hazel Watson and his son; Bryan Bennett and wife, Aly.
Funeral services for James Watson will be on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Bethel Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Brent Duncan officiating. The family will receive friends thirty minutes prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in the Garland Cemetery with military graveside rites provided by Sgt. E. L. Randolph Chapter #54 D.A.V.
Beam Funeral Service is honored to be assisting the Watson family. To send an online condolence please visit: www.beamfuneralservice.com