James Edward Louis Watson

James Edward Louis "Jimmy" Watson, age 70, passed away on February 23, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio. Born on July 11, 1955, in Dayton, Ohio, James was the beloved son of Bessie Watson and the late James Curtis Watson.

James earned a Bachelor's Degree from The Ohio State University before continuing to Capital University Law School, where he obtained his Juris Doctorate in Law. These academic achievements laid the foundation for a remarkable 34-year career in law.

As an attorney, James was deeply committed to justice and advocacy. While his primary focus was criminal defense, his practice also encompassed family law, immigration law, and estate planning. James was also a serial entrepreneur, in addition to his law practice he co-founded Impact Sports Promotion and Legal Aid.

James had a revolutionary spirit. He sought to confront injustice wherever he found it and never wavered in his belief that the law should serve as a shield for the vulnerable, not a weapon against them. He demonstrated an unwavering dedication to serving others, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives through both his advocacy and his example.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, James found joy in life's simple pleasures. He was an avid fisherman who cherished time spent by the water. He also enjoyed cycling, long-distance running, and playing basketball—activities that reflected his active spirit and love for the outdoors. A lifelong lover of live music, especially jazz, James embraced the arts with enthusiasm.

James is survived by his loving wife, Victoria Williamson; his children, Chanda Wingo, Michael Williamson, and Anwar Watson; his mother, Bessie Watson; his siblings Marguerite Cassandra Smith, W.C. Michael Watson, and Christian N.D. Watson; as well as five cherished grandchildren: Bryn Wingo, Bryan Wingo, Brayden Wingo, Asiyah Williamson, and Maryam Williamson. He was preceded in death by his father, James Curtis Watson, and his granddaughters Hana Williamson and Zara Williamson.

James's legacy is one of compassion, service, and dedication—a life lived with purpose and authenticity. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.