Hugh James Watson Jr.

Hugh James Watson, Jr., 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by love on Thursday, May 15, 2025. He was born in Forsyth County on September 20, 1943, to the late Hugh James Watson, Sr., and Willo Mae Smith Watson. Hugh was born and raised in Kernersville and was a graduate of Kernersville High School, where he enjoyed playing basketball.

Growing up he worked on the family farm and, in addition to dogs and horses, he had a calf named Little Dirty. After graduation, Hugh joined the Army National Guard and worked at Sears for over 30 years. While working at Sears, Hugh was lucky enough to meet Julia, who he married and was with for over 55 years.

Following Sears, he worked at Roadway until he retired. After taking some time off, as an avid fisherman, he enjoyed spending time at the local tackle shop - chewing the fat and telling tales with his friends. When the shop closed, Hugh found a new adventure and became a Contract Driver for Parks Chevrolet where he made new, close friends and drove for many years. A life-long pot stirrer, he especially enjoyed debating politics in the recent years. A huge Duke basketball fan, much to chagrin of his family except for one, Hugh created the ‘Duke Salute’. This meant taking off his cap, placing it on his heart, and giving a moment of silence every time he passed the exit to Duke University while driving for Parks.

Hugh also enjoyed camping and traveling. The family took many trips to the beach and mountains in the early years, and in the later years Julia and Hugh traveled to various places in the country.

Hugh was a family man. He was a funny, supportive, and much-loved husband, Dad, and Pop. He loved watching his kids and grandkids in their sports and relished spending time with them. He loooved and adored those grandkids and couldn’t have been happier being their Pop. He will be remembered for his dry wit, his ability to make a delicious family breakfast, and the immense love he had for those close to him. Although Hugh was not a man of many words, when he did speak, you listened.

In addition to his parents, Hugh is preceded in death by his sister, Paula Watson Honeycutt.

His memory lives on in the hearts of his wife of over 55 years, Julia Lawson Watson; a son and daughter-in-law, Rob and Carol Watson (Hollar); a daughter, Megan Watson; grandsons, James and Will Watson; his brother, Gary Watson; his sister, Lynnette Stack; as well as nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Eastlawn Gardens of Memory, with Pastor Steve Roberson and, one of Hugh’s best friends, Pastor Ron Freeman. A visitation will be held immediately following the ceremony at Eastlawn. In lieu of flowers, if you choose, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.