James R. "Jim" Watson

James R. “Jim” Watson

Age 97, of Crest Hill, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at Willow Falls Senior Living.

Born July 19, 1929 and raised in Bay City Michigan, Jim eventually moved to Oak Forest, IL in 1965.

Jim was a Master Mechanic ASE and served as the proprietor of Acorn Auto Parts for over twenty years and went on to establish himself as a respected business entrepreneur prior to his retirement.

After losing their daughter to leukemia in 1970, he and his wife responded with generosity and purpose, founding and coordinating The Joleen Watson Memorial Blood Drive then led the Oak Forest Blood Drive. His commitment to donating blood never wavered, and he was recognized for contributing over forty gallons during his life.

Jim was deeply involved in the Oak Forest community for many years, serving as a block captain for the Fieldcrest Neighborhood Watch Program and as a member of both the Oak Forest Crime Prevention Commission and the Veterans Commission. He was also an active member of the Rotary Club, where he was honored as Rotarian of the Year in 2008–2009 and again in 2010–2011. A proud veteran, he joined the U.S. Army Air Corps/U.S. Army Air Forces and was transitioned as a founding member into the newly established U.S. Air Force. Jim was a steadfast supporter of fellow veterans and generously volunteered his time at Hines VA Hospital. Jim became a private pilot enjoying the beauty of flight, and joined the Civil Air Patrol as a senior member as search and rescue pilot.

In 2024, Jim made his home at Willow Falls Senior Living Community in Crest Hill, where he formed many meaningful and lasting friendships.

Survivors include his daughter, and a son and his wife; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter and former wife.

The family would like to thank the staff of Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness and Care and his favorite caregivers at Willow Falls, Laura and Carol for their compassionate care of Jim during these past days.

A visitation for James R. “Jim” Watson will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. at Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home, 1500 Black Road, Joliet, IL 60435.

A Celebration of Life service will follow at 1:00 p.m.

Jim will be laid to rest in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL, following military honors and a committal service.

Relatives and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book by logging onto: www.PleseFuneralservices.com.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the genuine care and direction of Kenneth A. Plese, in Joliet, IL 815-735-2125.