John Thomas Watterson

Jack was born on June 14, 1950, in Phoenix, Arizona, the second son of Walter Lloyd and Olive May (Williams) Watterson.

On March 24, 1978, in Sedalia, Missouri, he was united in marriage to Linda Diann Harvey, who survives in the home. They were members of Wesley United Methodist Church in Sedalia.

Jack worked for Thompson Investment in Sedalia while also proudly owning and operating Watterson Landscaping from 1974 to the present. His passion for the outdoors and appreciation for natural beauty were reflected in both his professional life and personal hobbies. These hobbies included landscaping, silversmithing, gemstone collecting, and a diverse collection of books.

You could always find Jack in the garage listening to a baseball game; the Cardinals were his favorite. He was a history fanatic and an avid fan of The Beach Boys. He loved sharing his knowledge of landscaping with his family and made everything around him beautiful. To Jack, there was no better place on Earth than Phoenix, Arizona, and he loved to tell stories about all of the adventures he went on there. Jack loved his family deeply and found no better pastime than spending time with his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children: John Bradley Watterson (Amber) of Joplin, MO; Brett Thomas Watterson (Erin) of Wichita, KS; Ryan Matthew Watterson (Brianna) of Hughesville, MO; and Sara Janelle Watterson (Shane) of Columbia, MO. He is also survived by a bonus son, Jeremy Wade Franklin (Kim) of Hughesville, MO.

He leaves behind his grandchildren: Britten Mergen (Mattie), Rylee Rogers (Jake), Carter Watterson (Madi), Kamron Gilmore, Reagan, Paige, Dillon, Hannah, Kimberly, Parker, Annabelle, and Callahan Watterson; and two bonus grandsons, Clint and Pete Franklin. He was also blessed with one great-grandson, August Mergen, and two bonus great-granddaughters, Remington and Montana Franklin.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Walter Lloyd Watterson Jr.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel. In accordance with Jack's wishes, no public service will be held.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Isla Cares islacares.org/donate or to a charity of the donor's choice in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.