James Edward Watt, Sr.

Jim was born on August 16, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, and he lived a life marked by devotion, service, and strength of spirit. He was a funny, courageous, and faith-filled man whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and steadiness to the people around him. Those who knew him will remember his strong character, his easy humor, and the deep love he carried for his family and friends.

Jim was the beloved husband of Debbie, and together they shared a beautiful life after marrying on December 28, 1991, at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Warren, Michigan. He was a loving father to Eric Wolfe and his wife Karla, Jerry Wolfe and his wife Haleigh, Justin Watt and his wife Emily, and Jim Watt, Jr. and his wife, Erica. He was a proud grandfather to Eduardo Wolfe, Mackynze Wolfe, Madisyn Wolfe, and Leona Watt, and he treasured every moment spent with them. He was also the brother of Cecilia Dearing and her husband Bob, and he was preceded in death by his brothers Dan Watt and Justin Watt, his sister Virginia Watt, and his parents, Justin and Katherine Watt.

Jim earned his Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from Wayne State University before beginning a remarkable career in law enforcement. He served with the Detroit Police Department for 27 years, where he worked in the Narcotics unit, and later continued his service with the Wixom Police Department for 17 years. In all, he dedicated 44 years to protecting and serving his community before retiring in 2016. His career reflected his commitment to duty, his strong work ethic, and his desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Faith remained an important part of Jim’s life throughout the years. He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in White Lake and a former parishioner at Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Detroit, Michigan. His faith was a steady source of strength, and it was evident in the way he lived, loved, and cared for others.

Jim had many passions that made his life rich and full. In his younger years, he was deeply involved in bodybuilding and took great pride in staying in excellent shape. He loved golf and was known as a gifted athlete. He especially enjoyed riding his 1989 Harley-Davidson Ultra Glide, taking great pleasure in the freedom of the open road. Music was another lifelong joy for Jim, and he was a talented musician who played guitar, favoring electric guitar, though he especially loved his acoustic and full chords. He had a beautiful collection of guitars and found great enjoyment in classic rock and the timeless music of artists such as The Eagles, Eric Clapton, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Croce, The Beatles, James Taylor, and Simon and Garfunkel.

Jim was also an avid Detroit sports fan, especially when it came to the Red Wings. He took great pride in being active in the lives of his children and grandchildren, and he was known for coaching the boys in football and hockey. He loved teaching children in the neighborhood how to swim, often simply tossing them in and trusting they would figure it out. He was an adventurous spirit who loved scuba diving and had the opportunity to explore the depths of the Caribbean Sea near Belize. He also enjoyed traveling with Debbie, especially trips to Nashville. Simple pleasures brought him happiness as well, including meals at Applebee’s and visits to favorite buffets such as Ponderosa and The Old Country Buffet.

Jim’s life was one of service, love, laughter, and devotion. He will be remembered for his strong presence, his generous heart, and the many ways he enriched the lives of those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his wife, children, grandchildren, family, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Jim's family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 from 1:00 PM until 7:00 PM with a Rosary at Elton Black & Son Funeral Home located at 1233 Union Lake road, White Lake, Michigan 48386.

In state at 10:00 AM until time of The Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church with The Reverend Father Socorro Fernandes officiating. Jim's family, Ron and Kathy Prowse, will honor Jim as the musicians for Mass.

Interment will take place at Wixom Cemetery, Wixom, Michigan.

Memorial contributions in Jim's memory may be made to The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at pulmonaryfibrosis.org

Please share a memory or leave a condolence with Jim's family.