James William Watson

James William Watson "Big Jimmy," 81, passed away peacefully at his home in Big Timber, Montana, on September 11, 2025, with his granddaughter Jessica and daughter-in-law Cori by his side.

Born on August 17, 1944, in Hanford, California, James grew up immersed in the hard-working life of a dairy farm. From an early age, he learned the value of dedication and perseverance-qualities that would define his life and career. He spent his youth working on the family dairy before taking on labor-intensive jobs at the stockyards and asbestos mines. Eventually, he found his calling in the oilfields, where he rose through the ranks to become a respected company foreman. Even after retirement, "Big Jimmy" couldn't sit still for long; he took on a maintenance role at Conoco in Big Timber-a job he cherished not just for the work but also for the bond it gave him with manager Tracie, whom he proudly referred to as his adopted daughter.

"Big Jimmy" was a man of sincerity and strength-genuine in every word and action. He was known for being a straightforward guy who valued loyalty and love above all else. His easygoing nature made him approachable to many, but it was his unwavering devotion to family that truly defined him. To his family who knew him best, he was more than just a dad, grandpa, or brother; he was their rock, their legend.

He shared 58 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Lois Watson, until her passing. Together, they built a legacy rooted in love and resilience.

James is survived by his oldest son Lowell and daughter-in-law Cori Watson of Big Timber; youngest son Jimmy Watson of Florida; and a LARGE and loving group of grandchildren: Pooh Watson(Celena, Gavin & Eli) of Coalinga, CA; Jessica (Tony Isaacs, Brody, Joy, Felipe, Andre & Penelope) of Big Timber, MT; Bubby Watson(Monica, Levi & Kingston) of Coalinga, CA; Josh Watson(Angela, Boston, Preston, Drake & Thor) of WSS, West Virginia; Robert Watson (Ashley, Lil Rob, Faith, Liam & Hudson) of Rockport, TX; Shanae (Armando, Leeonah, Hunter, Sophia & Luxx) of Texas; Mariah Watson (Zayn & Enzo) of Coalinga, CA; Kaylie Stocking (David, Parker & Harley) of Lexington, SC; Rebecca Watson of North Hollywood, CA; and Sienna Watson of Big Timber, MT. But let's not forget the first set of daughters-in-law, Wendy Paxton of Coalinga, CA, and Anna Admire of Arizona.

Also mourning his loss are his cherished sisters and their families, Mable Shults, Lorraine (Melvin) Berlund, Margaret Hobgood, and Carolyn Handlon; as well as his half-brother Fred Jr. Chaney, his sisters-in-law Mary (Steve) Carpenter and Norma (Rich) Lowell, and Lavonne Holcomb. There is no doubt that Big Jimmy not only prioritized his family but also loved each and every one of them tremendously. It's a given that if you were to ask each and every one of them, they would confirm that they all loved him just as deeply.

And last but far from least, his faithful companion, his ever-so loyal Jack Russell pup of 8 years, "Gaby," who never left his side.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lois Watson; father, Lowell Watson; mother, Geraldine Chaney; brother, Chester Watson; mother-in-law, Chris Johnson; brothers-in-law, Dewayne Shults and Les Handlon; his grandmother, Irene Garcia; and grandfather, Tobin Armenta.

"Big Jimmy" found joy in life's simplest pleasures, especially when surrounded by family or close friends. Whether sharing stories over coffee or watching grandkids play nearby, those were the moments that meant everything to him. He was also known as Mr. Wilson, a nickname many of his friends and family gave him due to his uncanny resemblance to Walter Matthau, who played that role in the Dennis the Menace movie.

May all the memories of "Big Jimmy" bring comfort to all who knew him and his legacy to live forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

. A memorial service to celebrate the life of "Big Jimmy" is scheduled for the summer of 2026, allowing his large and beloved family to arrange accommodations. Any questions may be directed to his daughter-in-law, Cori, via email at cori.gregory@gmail.com.