Submitted by Trena Street.
This is the obituary for Jim that appeared in The Commercial Appeal/Memphis TN today. There was also a feature in the Sports section about his University of Memphis ties. - Trena
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<img src="images/jlwatson" hspace=20" align="left"><a href="http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/commercialappeal/obituary.aspx?n=james-leon-watson&pid=141286634">JAMES LEON WATSON</a> James Leon Watson passed away on Monday, March 29th, 2010. He was born July 27th, 1927 in Gibson County, Tennessee. He served his country in the Air Force near the close of World War II, and was stationed at Keesler Field in Biloxi, Mississippi.
He purchased Armstrong Transfer and Storage (now Armstrong Relocation) in 1957 with his late brother-in-law and close friend, Clyde Springer. What started as a humble moving company with only two men and two trucks later grew into a large full service relocation company, with offices throughout the United States.
Jim was an avid sportsman. He was a founding member of the Memphis Beagle Club and went on to win numerous National Field Trials all over the United States. He was one of two persons to have had more than one International Championship Beagle.
Jim was President of the University of Memphis Rebounders Club in 1972-1973. He was a loyal supporter of the University of Memphis Athletics, especially basketball and football. He was involved in countless philanthropic endeavors, one of which included serving as the President of the Whitehaven Chapter, Kiwanis International Club in 1968.
Jim was passionate in his support of the Final Net Mission, with First Methodist Church in downtown Memphis, which helped distribute sack lunches to the homeless. He was a lifelong Methodist who made a profound impact on several churches in Memphis over his lifetime. Jim had a heart of gold with the most generous spirit and was always giving to those in need. His zest for life was contagious; always exuded optimism even in the toughest of times.
He will be remembered for his selfless spirit that impacted countless individuals. He will be deeply missed by his; sons, Tom Watson, (Robin); Jeff Watson, (Connie); Chris Watson, (Wendy); sisters Ann Burgett, (Don); brothers, Robert Watson and grandchildren, Todd Watson, (Stacey); Amanda Watson Johnson, (Stanley); Christopher Watson; Evan Herrera; Alex Herrera; great grandchildren, Ella Watson, Liza Watson, and dear friend Rebecca. He was preceded in death by his parents Cleo and Eula Watson, his first wife, Joy of almost 51 years and mother of his children; his second wife, Kathy his sister Alma Victor, and his grandson Kevin Watson.
Visitation will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home, Tuesday March 30th from 5.p.m. until 8 p.m. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 31st at 1 p.m. at Hope Presbyterian Church with interment to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be sent to Piperton United Methodist Church (785 HWY 57, Piperton, TN 38017).
<a target="_new" href="http://www.memorialparkonline.com">Memorial Park Funeral Home</a><br />(901) 767-8930 </blockquote>