John R. James, 40 of Watson, passed away Sunday, February 20, 2022.

Military rites will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, March 3, 2022 at Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham with a memorial visitation to follow until 6:00 p.m. Memorial donations may be given to the charity of the donor's choice.

John was born August 23, 1981 in Effingham, the son of Alan and Gail (Lilley) James. He was a graduate of Effingham High School and later served in the United States Army as an Engineer in both Iraq and Afghanistan. John's time in the military was something he was very proud of.

John is survived by his son, Jaxon James, who was his #1 pride and joy; his mother, Gail; sister, Sarah (Ricky) Stein and grandmother, Delores J. James.

John was preceded in death by his father, Alan James; uncle, Greg Lilley; paternal grandfather, Irving C. James and maternal grandparents, Melvin and Luella Lilley.