He was born an only child to Jack Jr. and Connie Watson on September 24, 1969, in Los Angeles, California.
Growing up in California, Jack shared a special bond with his father. He often recounted stories of airplanes, air shows, and his dog Sammy. Jack graduated from Mira Costa High School in 1990, proudly remembering his years as a Mustang, where he made many lifelong friends and cherished memories.
In 1992, Jack moved to Fish Haven, Idaho, with his father. While living there, he worked at Bear Lake Pizza Co., Harry Benion’s Auto, Beaver Mountain, and for Tom Larsen. Jack valued the friendships and experiences he gained during this time, developing a deep love for cars and equipment that rivaled his passion for planes.
Seeking independence, Jack relocated to Montpelier in 2005, where his stepbrothers Marty and Jared Farmer and their families lived. He resided at the Aspenwood Apartments and treasured the close relationship he had with his stepbrothers, often referring to Thursdays as “Marty Days.”
Shortly after moving to Montpelier, Jack met his best friend Kenny Henderson, who became his wingman and partner in crime. Together they enjoyed participating in Special Olympics, bowling leagues, trips to Pocatello, and many late-night Wii and game nights.
Jack also formed a close bond with Shane Johnson and his family. He worked for Shane at JJ Sports, Bear Lake Furniture, and Wu House. Jack was Shane’s sidekick for many years at Montpelier Parks & Rec activities, volunteering as a referee, assisting with softball and baseball tournaments, managing the “BatsBatsBats” slow-pitch softball team, and handling money at games and tournaments. He is also lovingly remembered as The Easter Bunny.
Jack joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on November 8, 2008. Though he later chose not to attend regularly, humorously calling it a “church vacation,” he always enjoyed the 4th Ward Christmas party each year.
An avid fan of the Bear Lake Bears, Jack attended every home football game he could and listened to nearly every away game. He worked “light duty” at home football games and took on the job of cleaning the gym floor after basketball and volleyball games, often saying, “It’s a dirty job, but somebody’s got to do it!”
Some of Jack’s favorite pastimes included building model planes, doing puzzles, creating diamond art, watching movies, playing games, spending time with the Johnson family’s dogs, telling jokes and stories, quoting movies, and cherishing moments with loved ones. He had a particular fascination with Sasquatch and even reported a couple of sightings in Montpelier.
He loved being a volunteer for the Bear Lake Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. He was usually the one hanging up posters to promote various hospital events. He loved serving and accumulating service hours.
Jack participated in the Special Olympics for many years alongside close friends such as Kenny Henderson, Kenneth Sommers, Jodi Alexander, Tim Ramey, and Nicki Williams. He proudly served as the team medic and flag maker, enjoyed chatting with coaches, and earned medals in various events. Jack also hosted an annual free autograph signing at the Bear Lake County Fair. These experiences were deeply meaningful to him.
Whether involved in Special Olympics, his love of planes, bowling, or working on projects, Jack lived life to the fullest. He loved engaging with people and always made time to connect with those he knew.
Jack Watson III, also known as J3 or “The Dog,” will be remembered as a joyful and laughter-filled presence in the community. He was preceded in death by his parents and stepsister Kris Talley. He is survived by his stepmother Sheryl Farmer Watson; stepbrothers Marty Farmer (Michelle), Jared Farmer (JaNae), and Ezra (Susan) Farmer; many nieces and nephews; and the Shane and Mandy Johnson family, who became his second family for over 20 years.
A celebration of life for Jack will be held on September 27, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Oregon Trail Center.