Ella Faye West Watson James of Grapevine, Arkansas was born November 26, 1939, at Carthage, Arkansas, the daughter of the late Hughie Lee West and Carrie Albertie “Bertie” Hardcastle West. She was a member of Bethany #1 Missionary Baptist Church, and was very active in the VFW Ladies Auxiliary for years. She worked various jobs all of her adult life, including managing clothing stores, waitress for the Country Kitchen in Pine Bluff, helping people receive assistance through OEM, and Co-owned Watson’s Custom Slaughter. She had a huge heart, and loved and cared for so many people, especially her family.

Mrs. James died Thursday, July 9, 2026, at The Green House Cottages in Rison, at the age of 86. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Scott Watson; grandson, Eugene Watson; sister, Carrie Sue Wingard; brothers, Hughie Ray “Pete” West, Wilton Lee “Bill” West; former husband and father of her children, Tommy Watson.

Survivors include her sons, Curtis (Debbie) Watson, Thomas Watson; grandchildren, Chris Watson, Jennifer Watson, Harlon Watson, Nikki Watson, Bethanie Watson, Jessica Watson, Felicia Watson, Bailey Watson; 4 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild. She is also survived by numerous other extended family members and many friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home Chapel in Sheridan. Burial will follow in Black Cemetery (Cleveland County). Visitation is prior to the funeral, 10:00-11:00.