Dr. James Forte “Jim” Watson

Dr. James Forte “Jim” Watson, 87, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, in Lawrenceville, Georgia. A devoted family man, educator, and internationally respected leader in the textile industry, Dr. Watson leaves behind a legacy of innovation, service, perseverance, and integrity.

Born on November 5, 1938, in Columbus, Georgia, Jim was raised in the close-knit mill community of Bibb City—a place that shaped his lifelong values of hard work, loyalty, and community and remained close to his heart. From these humble beginnings, he forged an extraordinary path of academic achievement and professional excellence. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Textiles from the Georgia Institute of Technology through a cooperative program with Bibb Manufacturing Company, followed by a Master of Business Administration from West Georgia College, and later a Doctorate in Business Administration from California Coast University.

Jim proudly served his country as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army from 1964 to 1966. His military service instilled in him a deep sense of duty, discipline, and leadership that guided every chapter of his life.

Following his military service, Dr. Watson built a distinguished career in textile mill management before joining North Carolina State University’s renowned College of Textiles. There, he served as Associate Director of the Zeis Textile Extension and Director of TexLabs, where he helped advance textile innovation on a global scale. His work included the development and application of advanced textiles for NASA and military programs, leadership and mentorship of startup textile ventures, and teaching, lecturing, and consulting in textiles around the world. A trusted advisor and educator, he influenced generations of students, professionals, and entrepreneurs and was widely recognized as one of the foremost textile experts of his time.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jim was a man of faith, generosity, and community service. He was an active member of Apex United Methodist Church in Apex, North Carolina, where he found spiritual fulfillment and fellowship. He also dedicated his time and leadership to civic and fraternal organizations, including the Lions Club, the Elks Lodge, and the Moose Lodge, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service and community involvement.

Jim was known for his warmth, wisdom, and genuine care for others. He cherished time spent with family and enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—staying active, walking in the park, visiting the beach, and, in earlier years, dancing with his beloved wife, Donna. His kindness, intelligence, and steady presence left an enduring mark on all who knew him.

He is survived by his daughter, Dawn Dunkin; sons-in-law, Stuart Dunkin and Joseph Patton; granddaughter, Krista Patton Siberon, and her husband, Fermin Siberon; and his sister, Brenda Watson Boyett.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donna Street Watson; daughter, Vanessa “Eve” Watson Patton; his parents, James Oliver Watson and Dora Longshore Watson; brother-in-law, Cecil Boyett; nephew, Timothy Boyett; and niece, Kimberly Boyett Mack.

Service details will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

Dr. James Forte Watson lived a life of purpose, service, and global impact. His legacy endures through the family he loved, the communities he served, and the countless lives shaped by his leadership, mentorship, and innovation.