James A. Watson

Jim was born September 18, 1947, in Grand Island, NE, to James and Anna Marie (Finan) Watson. He was the fourth of five children, and first born son to his parents. Days after he was born, his family moved to Lincoln, NE, where he lived for about a decade until his family relocated to the Kansas City area. Jim attended grade school at Nativity in Independence, MO and graduated from Lillis High School in Kansas City, class of 1965. Jim started college at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where played football during his freshman year until he was drafted into the military where he served in the Vietnam War.
Upon returning from Vietnam, Jim earned a bachelors degree from Rockhurst University and later earned an MBA from Webster University. He had a strong work ethic and dedicated more than 40 years to his professional career in banking.
Although he enjoyed his work, Jims greatest passion in life was his family. He grew up with three older sisters and a younger brother and enjoyed quality time with them throughout his life. The greatest love of Jims life was his wife, Connie, whom he most enjoyed spending time with; they would have celebrated 36 years of marriage together on June 16th. Jim was blessed with four children, Heather, Meredith, Laura and Tommy. He was a very proud father and celebrated each of his children and their many accomplishments every chance he got.
Jim was known by most as a fun loving guy who always had a smile on his face and who could quickly bring a smile to the face of those around him. He enjoyed reading, working in the yard, and social gatherings with friends and family where he could discuss politics, history, and his family.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jerry Watson. He is survived by his wife, Connie Watson, his children; Heather Simpson (Neil), Meredith Hitchcock (William), Laura King (Ryan), and Tommy Watson; 5 grandchildren; Brennan and Blaine Borchardt, James and Grace Hitchcock, and James King. He is also survived by three sisters; Judy Woodbury (Jim), Mary Lou Holmes, Kay Prevost (Jim); in-laws, Tom Thompson, Cindy Wrehe (Ron), Dennis Thompson (Melissa) and Renee Watson; and many nieces and nephews.
Jim was many things to many people but most notably, he was a veteran who dutifully served his country, a passionate Nebraska football fan, an endearing father and a loving husband. Jim was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by his family and friends. And let it be known to all who knew him "we had fun!"
Rosary St. Elizabeth Catholic Church

Friday, June 12, 2020

10:00 AM

2 E 75th StreetKansas City, Missouri 64114
Directions Mass of Christian Burial St. Elizabeth Catholic Church

Friday, June 12, 2020

10:30 AM

2 E 75th StreetKansas City, Missouri 64114
Directions