James Watson passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the age of 80. Born August 21, 1945, in Houston, Texas, to James Erskine Watson, Sr. and Frieda Weghorst Watson, James grew up in Katy and graduated from Katy High School before earning a degree in Pharmacy from the University of Texas at Austin. He was a proud member of Pi Kappa Alpha and a lifelong Longhorn fan.

On September 10, 1965, James married the love of his life, Joan Elizabeth Woods. Together they built a life rooted in family, faith, and community. James wore many hats—husband, father, pharmacist, cattleman, grandpa, and great-grandpa—and embraced each with pride and joy.

James had a deep passion for ranching and FFA, earning the Texas Lone Star Farmer award and helping raise funds through FFA auctions as part of “The Big Spenders.” He and Joan were honored as Katy FFA Parade Marshals in 2020. He also devoted countless hours to youth rodeos, farming projects with his children, and time spent golfing, traveling, and cheering on UT football.

After college, James opened The Medicine Dropper Pharmacy in Katy, later relocating it into Brookshire Brothers, where it became the only independent pharmacy in the chain. To many, he was more than a pharmacist—he was a trusted friend and a true Katy legend. In recognition of his service, he was named City of Katy Senior Citizen of the Year in 2016.
Above all, James treasured time with his family, especially his granddaughter Carlie and his great-granddaughters, who brought him immense joy.

James is survived by his children Wendy (Paul) Hanne, Bonnie Watson, and Kirby Watson; granddaughter Carlie Seidel (Zach); great-granddaughters Collyns, Rylie, and soon-to-arrive Hannah James; as well as many cousins and his second wife, Margaret King. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Mary Katherine Edwards, and his beloved wife Joan.

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, December 30, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Midway BBQ in Katy. All are welcome. Guests are encouraged to wear burnt orange in honor of James’s love for the Texas Longhorns. Aggie friends, if you must wear your maroon, that is fine! Dad would expect nothing less! ☺

Memorial contributions may be made to the Katy High School Alumni Association. PO Box 887, Katy, TX 77492