James Ralph "Sparky" Watts

James Ralph "Sparky" Watts, 93, of Milburn, passed away on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at Murray Calloway County Hospital.

James was born in Dorena, Missouri, on February 17, 1932. He served his country valiantly in the Korean War, receiving a Purple Heart for his bravery. His unwavering faith led him to serve as a deacon at Arlington Assembly of God for 50 remarkable years. His commitment to community and faith was matched by his devotion to his wife, with whom he celebrated 72 years of marriage.

James was a skilled plumber who also enjoyed farming and raising cattle. His adventurous spirit shone through when he rode trail and dirt bikes with family and friends at Turkey Bay in Land Between the Lakes Park. James also took joy in waterskiing with his children at Kentucky Lake in the summertime.

James is survived by his wife, Marcella Booker; his sons, Daniel (Melody) Watts, of Milburn, Kentucky, and James (Debra) Watts, of Ash Grove, Missouri; his sister, Elizabeth Lorene Sands, of Jackson, Michigan; two grandchildren, Chelsea (Adrian) Harris and Sierra Watts; thirteen great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Vernon “Paul” Watts and Minne Agnes Watts; two sisters, Frances Mozelle and Violet Reynolds; his brother, Raymon Watts; one grandchild, Daniel Ray Watts Jr.; and one great-grandchild, Elizabeth Watts.
A Graveside Service will be held at 1:30 pm on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at Milburn Cemetery in Milburn, Kentucky, with Bro. Kody Hopwood officiating.

There will be no public visitation.

Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Arlington are in charge of arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Milburn Cemetery, 4940 SR 80 E Arlington, KY 42021.

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