Deacon James Willie Watson

Deacon James Willie Watson, 76, of Salley, was born on September 4, 1949 in Lexington County, South Carolina. He was the son of the late George Willie and Ralph Etta Watson. He transitioned to his heavenly home on Thursday, May 14, 2026, leaving a legacy that will be cherished by his family and friends.

Deacon James' industrious spirit led him to a fulfilling career in the Electrical Industry. He worked for many years at Michelin North America.  He later worked for over 29 years at Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative. After his retirement he showcased his green thumb as a gardener and ultimately found solace hosting his family and friends in his garage. 

Deacon James was married to Betty Garvin Watson for 25 years. He was affectionately known as a loving and generous husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He was loved by many and a respected member of his Church and Masonic Family. He was a devoted family man who wore a huge smile and had a caring heart.

At an early age, He was baptized at Saint Mark Missionary Baptist Church in Leesville, SC. He loved his church and served in many capacities. He was a faithful member of the Male Chorus, and served as a Deacon over the Missionaries. Two years ago, he was named Deacon Emeritus at his beloved church.

Brother Watson was a dedicated member of the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge #251 in Lexington, SC where he served as the Past Worshipful Master.

Mr. Willie was a proud graduate of Lexington High School in Lexington, SC. He enjoyed watching Judge shows and good old Western TV shows. He loved reading and keeping up with the daily news. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, George Willie Watson and Ralph Etta Stewart; one Brother, Olin Watson; and three sisters, Bettye Cancer, Barbara Watson and Ethel Watson.

Deacon James W. Watson leaves  to cherish the memories of his life; his loving wife Betty Garvin Watson of the home; two sons,  Fred Watson of Lexington, SC and Antonio Cannon of Ridge Spring, SC; two daughters, Lenora Watson and Carla Watson of Lexington, SC; daughter in law, Alice Cannon of Leesville, SC; son in law, Stephen L. Sutton of Columbia, SC; two stepchildren, Dr. Lenora Garvin (Lonnie) Covington of Moore, SC and Dr. Brittany Garvin (Christian) Hudson of Indianapolis, IN; brothers, Tommy (Frances) Watson of Batesburg-Leesville, SC, Russell Watson of Lexington, SC, James E. Watson of Prosperity, SC, Joe (Phyllis) Watson of Lexington, SC; sisters, Annie Caughman of Lexington, SC, Judy Lewis of Augusta, GA, Yvonne Humphrey of Batesburg, SC, and Shelby (David) Clark of Batesburg, SC; five sisters-in-law, Evonne Watson, Amanda Rawlinson of Columbia, SC, Willette Booker, Annie (McKinley) Isaac and Thelma Anderson all of Springfield, SC; three brothers-in-law, David Mincy of Blackville, SC, Joe Mincy and Larry (Ladebra) Mincy of Salley, SC; eighteen grandchildren along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other loving relatives and friends.

Homegoing services will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Samaria Missionary Baptist Church, Springfield SC. Burial will follow at St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery. Leesville SC. Visitation will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Barr-Price Funeral Home and Crematorium, Historic Batesburg-Leesville Chapel.

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