James Richard Watson P E

James R. Watson, P E of Warrington, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully in his home alongside his loving wife on January 30, 2026. He was just shy of 81 years old.

Born in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, James was the eldest child of the late Charles and Marian Watson. A lifelong Pennsylvanian, he grew up in Springfield and attended Springfield High School, where he met the love of his life, Katharine. The high school sweethearts married in 1967, beginning a partnership that spanned decades and was rooted in love, loyalty, and laughter.

James served his country in the United States Army as a Military Police Officer at Fort Dix, New Jersey - an experience that reflected his sense of order, duty and responsibility. James was a proud graduate of Drexel University and built a successful career as a civil engineer.

Known for his sharp mind and quick wit, James never missed an opportunity to share a perfectly timed dad joke. He was an avid Philadelphia sports fan and a devoted soccer enthusiast, cheering passionately and sharing that love of the game with his son. He was deeply supportive of his loved ones - whether that meant being the team photographer for his son's soccer team, lending his intelligence to campaigns, offering encouragement, or proudly displaying a sign when it mattered most.

Above all, James was a family man. He was a playful, fun-loving grandfather who delighted in making his grandchildren laugh and feel endlessly loved. His humor, and steady presence will be missed more than words can express.

James is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Katharine McDowell Watson; his children, Derek Watson, and Janet Richard and her husband, Joseph; his sisters, Barbara Sixsmith and her late husband, Andrew, Joan Bachman and her husband, Michael; his grandchildren Madeline, Chris, and Julia; as well as many nieces, nephews, and Godchildren. His legacy lives on in each of them, carried forward through shared stories, laughter, and love.

Family and friends are invited to a greet the family on Wednesday February 11, 2026 from 10:30 am until his Funeral Service 11:30 am at the Joseph A. Fluehr III Funeral Home 241 E. Butler Ave. (at Sandy Ridge Rd.), New Britain, PA. Interment will follow with Military Honors at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Buck County SPCA, or to the American Diabetes Association.