James David Watson, 74 of Pleasant Plans, Il passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at his residence with his wife and son by his side.

Jim was born March 31, 1948 in Litchfield, IL, the eldest son of James & Gloria (McCourt) Watson.  Jim was a U.S. Navy Disabled veteran that honorably served his country during the Vietnam era.  He trained and graduated from the University of Illinois Law Enforcement Academy in Champaign, Il and began his life long career of serving his community and helping anyone that needed assistance.  He served as a police officer in Gillespie, IL, Benld, IL, Macoupin County Sheriffs Dept, and the Springfield Park Police Dept.  He served as a volunteer fireman with the Gillespie Volunteer Fire Dept, senior advisor for Springfield police dept law enforcement explorer post where he touch many lives of the young cadets.  Jim taught by example, teaching how to solve problems with respect and compassion.  Anyone that during James life journey was able to come into his life always continued their journey having found a true friend and supporter.

Jim was a Cubs fan, Chicago Bears fan and later in life an Alabama Crimson Tide football fan, as well as any other team that “his boys” were playing on.   He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police and the Northender VFW Post #10302.

Jim is survived by his wife, Sally; son; Joe (Christie) Watson; daughter, Robin (Greg) Thurman; brother, Larry (Donna) Watson; Sisters, Lean Scherly, Gaye (Charlie) Rossine; grandchildren; Ian (Dakota) McKinney USAF, Cody (Brooklyn) McKinney USAF, Karyss Thurman, Wyatt Thurman, Cooper Thurman, Great-grandchildren; Brinnleigh McKenney, Rylan McKinney, and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

He has left us too soon but we can gain strength from how he lived his life, his 20 years serving in law enforcement, his love for his family, and his enjoyment of spending time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friends.  His passing will definitely leave a vaid in the many lived that he touched through his strength, compassion and love.

Cremation provided by Central Cremation Center-Forsyth, IL with private family interment to be at Camp Butler at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations my be made in Jim’s memory to:  Parkinsons.org/ASPCA/