James Dewayne “Jim” Watson, 82, of Grand Island, Nebraska, passed away on February 13, 2026. Mass of Christian burial will be Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Leo’s Catholic Church. The Revs. Donald A. Buhrman, Mark A. Maresh, and Wajid Masih, will concelebrate. Interment will be in Burwick Cemetery in Cairo, NE with a 2 p.m. committal service. Visitation will be Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 5 – 7 p.m. at Curran Funeral Chapel with a vigil service at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. You are welcome to sign Jim’s guestbook at www.curranfuneralchapel.com under Jim’s obituary. Curran Funeral Chapel is assisting the family.

He was born on April 25, 1943, and was raised in Grand Island, where he spent the majority of his life. Jim graduated from Grand Island Senior High School in 1961. During his high school years, he worked for Ken Carver, fiber glassing damaged boats, an early experience that reflected his strong work ethic and natural mechanical ability. Following graduation, he traveled to Fort Randall, South Dakota, where he helped build a marina for his employer at Frost Marina.  Jim began a long and dedicated career with New Holland, where he was one of the very first employees hired at the Grand Island facility in 1965, starting as a welder. Over the years, he took on many different roles within the company and was known for his strong work ethic and adaptability. He retired in 1998, completing more than three decades of service.

On August 25, 1962, Jim married Elaine Michalski. Together they shared 63 years of marriage and raised five children: Lori (Gartner), Brian, Matt, Shelly (Szlanski), and Seth. Their family grew to include eleven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of pride and joy for Jim throughout his life.  In addition to his professional career, Jim farmed from 1980 until 2002. He also served his community as an elected Howard County Commissioner, serving four years. A natural businessman, Jim helped start U-Betcha Auto with friends Dave and Jerry Sack and was known for his keen eye for good buys and strong business instincts.

Jim was a devout Catholic and active in the Catholic Church throughout his life. He served on parish councils and was especially known for leading the Lenten fish fries, bringing people together year after year.  Jim genuinely enjoyed people and had an easygoing personality that drew others to him. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time on the water, particularly working on and enjoying pontoon boats. He also took pride in building and fixing things, working comfortably with both wood and steel.

Jim is survived by his wife, Elaine (Michalski) Watson; his five children; eleven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother.