THOMASTON — James “Jim, Jimmy” Watts, was born October 27, 1944 to Alden and Willimenna Watts. After 79 years of playing the best game anyone could play, he was called out, stealing the best life one could ask for.

He passed away peacefully on December 28, 2023. Jim was a son of Thomaston who grew up on Beechwood Street with many other Watts and loved his community very much. With kindness and generosity Jim coached,
umpired, and generally supported anyone who came across his path.

Jimmy was a dog whisperer who never met a dog he didn’t love and that didn’t love him back equally in return. Jim loved his family and was always good for a hug. He never said the obligatory, “I love you.” He said “I love you” like he meant with all his heart, like it might be the last time he may see you, every single time. You could often find Jim in a contemplative moment (usually smoking a cigar) really in awe of his family and the life he built.

Jim leaves behind a wife of 50 years, Elizabeth Duff Watts, and four children, Jaimee Watts and partner Alan Knowlton, Ryan Watts and wife Tonya Holt, Troy Watts and his wife Taryn Watts, and Laura Goldwire. He is also survived by his grandsons, Alexander Watts and Benjamin Watts. He’d also want me to tell you that he is predeceased by a lot of dogs he loved (Carob, Brie, Pal, Pal, Molly, Gus, Mattie, and Daisy just to name a few) and survived by Rosie, Lulu, and Tuckerman.

Jim loved to watch his kids compete in athletics and later loved watching his grandsons. Jim “Grampy” was often reprimanded by Betty, “If you say one more thing to that ref we’re leaving!” There’s a fair chance that somewhere Jimmy is having one more go at The Referee for calling him out this last time. Until at least, he realizes all those dogs are there.

We want to invite you to come celebrate the life of Jim on Thursday, January 4, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland. Come, hear the stories and share your own, and remember Jim for who he was and how he lives on.

In lieu of flowers the family requests you make donations in memory of Jim Watts to the Oceanside Athletic Department, c/o Oceanside High School, 400 Broadway, Rockland, Maine 04841.

To share a memory or condolence with the Watts family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.