James "Jim" Watling Sr.

James E. Watling Sr.

Lorain - James E. Watling Sr., passed peacefully on March 31st, 2025 at the age of 86 in Oak Trace Senior Living, Downers Grove, Illinois.

James, Jim, to friends and family, was born in Lorain, Ohio, on May 22nd, 1938 to Aurelia F. (Nee Reising) and Edward J. Watling. He was the third of seven children. He graduated from Lorain High School, Class of 1957-B, and enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard the Destroyer Escort Joseph K. Taussig.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine M. (Nee Karney); sister, Sally; and brother, Richard "Dick".

He is survived by his sons, James Edward Watling, currently residing in Vientiane Laos; Stephen Karney Watling of Darien, IL; daugther-in-law, Sheila M. Barry; and two grandchildren, Katie (11) and Jack (8).

The family will receive friends at Reidy-Scanlan-Giovannazzo Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2150 Broadway, Lorain, OH on Friday, July 11, 2025 from 4 - 7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter Parish, 3655 Oberlin Ave., Lorain, OH at 9:30 AM, Saturday, July 12, 2025, Fr. Craig M. Hovanec, Pastor, officiating (meet at Church Saturday). Christian inurnment services following the Mass at Calvary Cemetery in Lorain, OH with military honors. Online condolences may be sent using www.rsgfuneralhome.com.