Chatham……..James Ramsey Watlington, Jr., age 77 of Chatham, left this earthly life on Sunday, June 18, 2017 after 16 years of courageously battling Alzheimer's Disease. He passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family at Gretna Health and Rehab Center.
Born May 1, 1940 in Pittsylvania County he was a son of the late James Ramsey Watlington, Sr. and Onie Shelhorse Watlington. He was predeceased by a sister, Jane Smith; and his beloved mini dachshund, Oscar. He married Emilie Riddle Watlington on June 30, 1961; they had been married just shy of 56 years. James attended Renan School, retired from VDOT after twenty seven years of service and a second time from Chatham Oil Company, now Davenport Energy, after ten years of service. Mr. Watlington loved his co-workers and had a special fondness for his co-workers at Chatham Oil; he took pride in having loyal customers, whom he also considered friends. James served six years in the Virginia National Guard in Chatham, Va. He was a member of Payneton United Methodist Church and faithfully served God and his church. James enjoyed his cars, especially the Black 1957 Chevrolet; he had a love of gardening, keeping an immaculate yard, country western music & dancing, trips to Myrtle Beach and the mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee. James was devoted to his family and friends, but especially his granddaughter Zoie.
He is survived by his wife, Emilie Riddle Watlington of the residence; two sons, David Watlington and wife, Beverly of Chatham and Gary Watlington and wife, Kellie of Altavista; one brother, Delano Watlington and wife, Betty of Danville; four sisters, Ida Mae Johnson and husband, Stanley of Woodbridge, Marjorie Creasy and husband, Reuben of Browns Summit, NC and Gladys Thompson and husband, Bob of Irvine, TX; one granddaughter, Zoie Watlington; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
A celebration of James' life will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 21, 2017 at Payneton United Methodist Church by Rev. Harold Thornton, Rev. Curtis English and Morgan Allen. Burial will follow in Hillcrest Burial Park.
The family will receive friends from 7 to 8:30 P.M. Tuesday, June 20, 2017 at Colbert-Moran Funeral Home and other times will be at the residence.
Although flowers and plants are welcome, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to God's Pit Crew 2499 North Main Street, Danville, VA 24540.
Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.