James Michael (Mike) Watson, age 61, of Covington, passed away Nov. 18, 2017. A 1974 graduate of Newton County High School, Mike worked for Liberty Finance before he started his career as a police officer. He served both the cities of Monticello and Covington. After his time spent in law enforcement, Mike decided to carve out a different path for himself, and for over 20 years, he earned his living as a truck driver. He attended both Mt. Tabor Bible Church and The Potter’s House, and was recently baptized into the Christian faith. Mike’s hobbies were playing guitar, fishing, and he was also a fan of motorsports. He especially enjoyed getting together with family and friends. All who knew Mike loved him. He was preceded in death by his father, Roy Lee Watson; great-nephew, Jackson Barrett Kirkus.

Survivors include his daughter, Stephanie Leigh Poynor, and husband, Mark, of Ft. Jackson, South Carolina; son, James Michael Watson, Jr., and fiancée, Laura Suzanne of Covington; grandchildren, A.J. Watson, Logan Watson, Ruaidhri Watson, Madison Poyner, Landon Poyner, Everett Poyner, Quinn Poyner, Grayson Poyner; mother, Shirley A. Watson; sister, Cindy Webb; brother, Timothy Watson, all of Covington; nieces, Melissa Smith, Jennifer Smith; great-niece, Lexi;  and great-nephews, Addison, Barrett, Julian, Skyler.

A Funeral Service for Mr. Watson will be held Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017 at 2 p.m., at the Chapel of Caldwell & Cowan, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, with Pastor Phil Budensiek, Rev. Brian Wardlaw, Pastor Ricky Bradford officiating. Interment will follow in Lawnwood Memorial Park, Covington. Friends may visit with his family at the funeral home, Monday, Nov. 20, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.