Jimmy Grant Watson

Jimmy Grant Watson, known to friends as "Buddy," age 86, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

Jimmy was the son of the late Theodore and Jennie Hartley Watson. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 42 years, Bessie Jean Watson; his brother, Rev. Gene Watson (Pansy); and his sisters, Paralee Green (Ronald) and Mevolene Watson.

Jimmy enjoyed reminiscing about his life and all of his adventures. From the time he was a child, he always looked forward to time spent with his best friends, Joe Greer and the late Sid Watson.

He was always completing projects around his house, putting his carpentry, rockwork, and masonry skills to good use, his trips to Lowe's Hardware and Sam's Club never seemed to end.

He started and ended every day watching the sunrise and sunset, cherishing the time spent with his wife, family, and grandchildren.

He was a true and faithful servant of the Lord, attending Calvary Church of God in Boone, NC, where he found great comfort and strength in his faith.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, JoAnne Barbour Watson; daughters Donna Catone (Joe) and Sharon Greene (Stacey); stepsons Joseph Barbour, Stephen Barbour (Amanda), and Samuel Barbour (Molly); grandchildren Justin Duthie, Amy McGinn (John), Abigail Catone, Brandy Greene, Trathen Greene (Jessica), Jakob Greene, and Jenna Hefti (Ryan); step grandchildren Micaela, Amanda, Olivia, Katlyn, Jennifer, and Tyler. He was also blessed with 18 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services for Jimmy will be conducted on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Austin & Barnes Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00 pm with services following at 2:00 pm. Graveside services will follow at Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery. Reverend Timothy Shuping will be officiating.

Online condolences may be made at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin & Barnes is serving the Watson family

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