James W. Watson Sr., 76, of Sebring, FL. And formerly of Elyria passed away Saturday February 4, 2017 at his home following a brief illness. He was born January 23, 1941 in Ralph, PA.. Jim was employed at American Airlines for 38 years, retiring in 2003 as a Fleet Clerk Service Manager. He was a United States Army veteran and a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Elyria, the Transport Workers Union of America, Local 568 AFL-CIO for 38 years, and honorary member of the Elyria Knights of Columbus Council 774 and the Francis McManus 4th Degree Assembly of the Knights of Columbus. Survivors include his wife of 52 years, AnnaMarie (nee-Krupinsky); daughters, Tammy Watson of Philadelphia, PA. and Cheryl Faulkner of Atlanta, GA.; son, James Jr. (Dawn) Watson of Atlanta, GA.; 8 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by 1 sister and 2 brothers. The family will receive friends Sunday 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. (at State Rt. 57), Elyria. Closing prayers will be Monday February 13, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home followed by a 11:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave., Elyria. The Rev. Fr. Charles Diedrick, pastor, will be the Celebrant. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Make a Wish Foundation, 4742 North 24th St. Suite 400 Phoenix, AZ. 85016 in memory of James Watson I.D. # 3510415. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com