James David Watson passed away unexpectedly, but quietly, in the early morning hours of January 13, 2023, with his beloved canine companions, Maggie and Allie at his side. Born in Florence, South Carolina on April 6, 1953, David had an Americana childhood, growing up on the working farm of “Sugarberry Acres” with his parents, George and Lois Watson, his brother Mac, and his grandparents. In addition to the work on the farm, David also became an Eagle Scout and played football at Latta High School.
After high school, he began his higher education career where he enjoyed not only his time in the classroom, but also his time out of the classroom, holding leadership positons and having a significant impact on the institutions and his fellow students.
David attended and was a proud alumnus of Wingate University, College of Charleston, and Francis Marion University, and ended his academic career by receiving his Juris Doctorate at the University of South Carolina School of Law.
Upon graduation from law school, David clerked for one year for the Honorable Marion “Son” Kinon, before joining the Fourth Circuit Solicitor’s office, where he started full- time, and remained on a part- time basis after opening his own law firm in 1989.
While operating his law practice to assist the residents of the area, he also served for a period of time as the Public Defender and interim town judge for the City of Latta.
His legal passion, though, was helping individuals with disabilities receive the benefits they were entitled from the Social Security Administration. This provided him the greatest joy and reward in his practice of law.
In addition to a time consuming professional career, David was extremely active in civic, charitable, educational, and professional organizations. A longtime member of the Latta Rotary Club, David was a two-time past President, and a Paul Harris Fellow.
He was honored as a Kentucky Colonel and he was extremely proud to be a member of the Order of St. Lazarus Society. Having served as a member of the Board of Directors of the College of Charleston Alumni Association, he continued his service to his alma mater in 1989 by becoming one of the original members of the College of Charleston Board of Trustees, where continued to serve as a Trustee Emeritus.
David was predeceased by his grandparents, his parents, and his brother.
He is survived by countless friends and especially his longtime and cherished coworkers Debbie Carter and Missy Berry. The service to remember and honor David will be Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at the Latta United Methodist Church. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. the same day, also at the church.
Cooper Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements.
Memorials for David can be made to the Dillon County Animal Shelter, the College of Charleston, or The Old Ebenezer Church Cemetery Fund.