James Watts, Jr.

James Watts, Jr., 91, of Manila, passed from this life Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022, at Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro. Born in Saint Joe and raised in Shirley, he was the son of the late Walter James and Bessie Louise Dunning Watts and had been a longtime resident of North Plains, Ore., before making his home in Manila in 1978. James was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War and worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator for Dant and Russell, Inc. in Oregon. He later became a long haul truck driver before his health forced him to retire in 1991. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Norma Faye Stone Watts; one daughter, Donna Weathers; five brothers and six sisters.

Survivors include his son, Tom Watts; two daughters, Debbie Copeland (Jimmy) and Brenda Davis, all of Manila; one sister, Jean Watts of Meridian, Miss. He also leaves several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

A private graveside service will be in the Manila Cemetery under the direction of Howard Funeral Service. Online guest register: www.howardfuneralservice.com