James Watson
Alton |
James R. Watson, 99, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, May 13, 2012, at Rosewood Care in Swansea. James was born in Owensboro, KY on Oct. 31, 1912, the son of the late Lonus and Annie (Jenkins) Watson. He was married to Gwendolyn Blazier on June 21, 1934. She survives. He worked at the Shell Oil Company for 42 years, retiring in 1974. In addition to his wife, he is survived by a sister, Regina Price of Alton, Illinois, two “adopted” granddaughters, Keri Lee Nguyen and Traci Lee Phan, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Durward and Thurman Watson. After retiring he became active in civic work, serving as President of the Board of Directors of Senior Services; working with Hospice; delivering Meals on Wheels, teaching Driver’s Review classes for the State of Illinois and working with language groups, helping with relocation, learning English, etc; was a charter member of the Calvary Baptist Church, Alton, serving as Deacon and Trustee, Men’s Bible class teacher, and Minister to the Homebound. Memorial Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 19, 2012 at Calvary Baptist Church in Alton. Reverend Andre Dobson will officiate. No visitation. Private burial will be at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey. Memorials may be made to the “Building Fund” or “Project Nehemiah Building Fund” at Calvary Baptist Church or to a charity of your choice. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com
Gent Funeral Home
