James "Bud" Watts
July 5, 1927 - February 16, 2021
Bud passed on February 16th at his daughter's house from natural causes under Hospice care. He is preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Catlett Watts but leaves several family members to carry on his memory and legacy: his sister Anna "Russ" Cottrell of Lawrenceburg; a daughter Julie Watts McKee (Michael Strawn) of Georgetown and another daughter Holly Watts (Bob Herman) of New York City.
He attended Lawrenceburg's First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Bud was involved in local government, serving as Lawrenceburg's City Police Judge in the 1970s, served on the Planning and Zoning Commission and as a County Magistrate for Anderson Fiscal Court. He was the Commander for American Legion Post 32 and was involved in the management of the local horse show for years, including the Lawrenceburg Fair and Horse Show. He also served as director and president of the Kentucky Association of Fairs and Horse Shows.
He served in the Army and was part of the German Reconstruction immediately following WWII. He was also an entrepreneur, buying vintage homes in Lawrenceburg and renovating them for sale. He always had a smile and was a friend to all. He will be missed. “This is a great loss to our fairboard and he will be sorely missed,” said Wayne Hanks, long-time manager of the Lawrenceburg Fair and Horse Show.
Because of pandemic restrictions and precautions, a celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date when everyone can celebrate safely. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to his favorite charity, St. Jude's Research Hospital or your local animal shelter.