James Arthur Watson

He is survived by his children, Kathy Hancock, Carl Watson and his wife, Jamie Gurganus Watson; grandchildren, George Hancock Jr. and his wife, Viwan, James David Hancock, Sarah Hancock and her husband, Chris, Erin Alsbrook and her husband, Jordan, Ashley Ingle and her husband, Tyler, and Emily Watson; great-grandchildren, Maggie, Kai, Tate, Kit, Kingsley, and Leo Elaine; and other loving family members and close friends.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Barbara Jean Watson; son, Gary James Watson; brothers, Charles Watson and Robert Watson; and beloved granddaughter in law, Jamie Lynn Cooper Hancock, wife to David Hancock.

Known as “Honey” to Grandma Barbara and his grandchildren, James always provided love and care to his family. He was a faithful member of Saint Mary’s Free Will Baptist Church where he and Barbara enjoyed fellowship with wonderful friends for many years. He served others. He was a volunteer firefighter. He served in the National Guard and then the United States Army Reserves.

The family will receive visitors from 1:00-2:00 pm on Friday, March 8, 2024, at Cotten Funeral Home. A funeral service will begin at 2:00 pm. Following the services, James will be laid to rest beside his wife at Greenleaf Memorial Park.

In lieu of sending flowers the family suggests making a donation in his memory to Saint Mary’s Free Will Baptist Church, New Bern or to the West of New Bern Fire Department.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of James Arthur Watson.