Obituary of James Leoma Gilbert Watson

Of St. Thomas, formerly of Clinton and Stratford, ON, passed away after a short, but courageous battle with cancer, at the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in his 77th year. 

Dearly loved father of Wendy Thrower (Brian Harvey), Bryan Watson (Julie Johnston), and Darla Taylor (Dan). Cherished grandpa of Bradley, Kaitlyn, Jaime, Ryan, Kayla, Barrett, and Brady. Loved brother of Norman Watson. He will be fondly remembered by many close friends, cousins, nieces, nephews, and their families. Predeceased by infant son, Christopher Robert James Watson (1972), and by siblings, Glenna Taylor, Emily Pelkey, and Ray, Donald, Vincent, David, and Therman Watson.

Born in Lake Edward, NB, May 9, 1949, he was a son of the late Bernard and Amy (née Dee) Watson. He was a retired welder at Cleaver-Brooks Canada, Stratford. His retirement days were filled with things he loved; fishing, road trips, yard sales, and searching for fiddle heads in the spring! If something needed fixing, he was the one to call, and puttering around and building things brought him great joy.

James (also known as Jim or Jimmy) was a devoted and hard-working family man, always putting the needs of others first. His sense of humor and opinionated charm touched the lives of many. His love and support for his children were always his top priority, and he was always their biggest cheerleader in life.  His grandchildren meant the world to him. Whether he was watching hockey, soccer, baseball or horseback riding, he will always be remembered as his grandkids biggest fan, and he was very proud of each of them.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Interment of James’ cremated remains will take place in Saint Alban's Anglican Church Cemetery, New Brunswick at a later date. If so desired, please consider a memorial donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or the STEGH Foundation. Arrangements are entrusted to the Sifton Funeral Home, 118 Wellington St., St. Thomas (519-631-1160).