James (Jim) Lewis Watson, known to old friends as 'Whitey', passed away surrounded by family on July 1, 2026, at Good Samaritan Village in Sioux Falls, aged 89. He was under the compassionate care of Sanford Hospice.

Jim was born August 26, 1936, in Canistota to his mother, Gladys. He was a star athlete in school, excelling in baseball, basketball, and track.

He was married to Joan Kay Bryant in Seattle, WA, on June 1, 1962. Jim had two sons, Jed (Susan) of Manitowoc, WI, and Josh of Sioux Falls. He was blessed later in life with a grandson, McCartney James Watson of Sioux Falls. He is also survived by his sister, Sharon (Tom) of Derby, Kansas, and brothers, Curt (Cindy) and Tom (Joni) of Sioux Falls.

Jim earned his bachelor's degree in special education from Augustana College in 1969 and went on to teach special education in public schools of Racine, WI for 26 years.

He was quiet, but strong. Jim had a special concern for, and dedication to, the underdogs of this world, which was an expression of his Christian faith. He took delight in simple pleasures like shopping with Joan, cooking, and following the Milwaukee Brewers.

Services for Jim will be private.