James Olen Watts Jr.

James Olen Watts Jr. “Buttons”, of Canadian and formally of Clarendon, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in Canadian.

Graveside Services are 10:00 AM, Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Citizens Cemetery in Clarendon with Dr. Matt Phenix officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors of Canadian.

Public viewing will be held at Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors in Pampa, Thursday and Friday 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

James Olen Watts Jr. “Buttons” was born March 25, 1962, in Dalhart to James Olen Sr and Lucille Watts. He grew up in Clarendon where he made lifelong friends and graduated from Clarendon High School. On September 12, 1987, James married the love of his life, Sheryl Miller, in Clarendon. Together they built a life filled with laughter, faith and devotion to family, moving to Canadian in 2008. James worked as a Meat Cutter for Lowes Grocery and developed great friendships with his coworkers.

James was a man who found joy in the simple things; family vacations to Quartz Mountain, watching NASCAR on a Sunday afternoon or gathering around the table with loved ones. His greatest pride was his children and grandchildren, loving each one beyond measure. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church faithfully serving with Awana’s and helping prepare fellowship meals. James’s faith was the anchor of his life, sharing these words with those around him: “When I was lost, Jesus found me. When I was in sin, Jesus freed me. When I didn’t have the strength to walk, Jesus carried me!”

James was welcomed into heaven by his parents, James Sr & Lucille Watts, his brothers, Carol Wayne Watts, Buster Kerlee and Billy Kerlee.

Those who will forever cherish his memory are his wife of 37 years, Sheryl Watts; children, Joshua Watts and wife Breanna, Natasha McNeil and husband Matthew, Sasha Watts and Catrina Leard; his grandchildren Coltley Watts, Braxley Watts, Brylee Leard, Brooke Allen and Brentley Allen, Colin McNeil, Chara McNeil, and Colby McNeil; his sister, Edna Watts; and his brother, James Edward Watts; as well as countless friends and extended family who were blessed to know and love James.

James’s life was a testament to love, faith, and kindness, His laughter, his hugs, and his unwavering devotion will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Memorials in James’s honor may be made to First Baptist Church of Canadian, PO Box 717, Canadian, TX 79014 or Favorite Charity.