Jim Watson

Richard 'Jim' Watson, II passed away peacefully at home after an extended battle with cancer on August 12, 2023. The funeral service will be at 11:00 on August 19 Owens Funeral Home (101 N. Elm St. Champaign), with a visitation one hour prior to the service (10:00-11:00).  Burial will be at Grandview Memorial Gardens in Champaign.  


Jim was born on September 27, 1957 to Richard J. Watson and Edna J. (Shick) Watson who preceded him in death. 


Jim leaves behind two sisters, Ellen S. Watson and Particia J. Watson-Tufte, and his brother John D. Watson. Jim also leaves behind his nieces and nephews, James DeHaven, Jennifer Tufte, Theresa Tufte, Richard Tufte and Dametri Watson.


After graduating from Central High School Jim earned degrees in mechanical drafting and automotive repair.  He put his automotive degree to use as a crew member for Jeb Allen and Jeb’s dragster “Praying Mantis”.


Jim enjoyed listening to the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears games with friends, and watching the Svengoolie Creature Feature especially as he became more home bound. Jim was an avid hobbyist building scale models including planes, trains, and cars going as far back as the age of 8 and as recent as 3 months ago. Jim could often be found flying his model planes at the Champaign County R/C Club’s airfield.  Jim was always willing to share his love of flying and show his R/C airplanes with anyone who stopped after driving by and seeing his amazing planes.


In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to Champaign County Radio Control Club or St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital.

 

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