With a spirit as wild as the Amarillo wind that he often tried to tame, James Rodnie McWatters, better known as J.R., drove off into the sunset for his last ride on July 3, 2025.

Celebration of Life activities will be at 3:00pm on Saturday July 12th, 2025, at 3915 San Jacinto Ave, 79106.

Born in the small town of Olustee, OK on June 29, 1943, J.R. was never one to shy away from an opportunity to bring a smile to one of his kids face and he exemplified living life in the driver’s seat. Whether it was racing down the middle of a riverbed or navigating the curves of fatherhood, he could keep it under control but never went slow. It was part of his outlaw style best described by his favorite musicians Willie, Waylon and The Boys.

For many who remember him he was an expert driver of trains, trucks and heavy machinery and in his later years a creative landscaper. While he accomplished all his goals in his various professions, he may be best known for smoked meats and off-roading skills that he filled his golden years with. J.R.’s commitment to craft BBQ included a custom designed smoker and practicing as much as you possibly can without being a professional and of course sharing it all with his friends and family. It was another way he liked to bring a smile to faces as was wearing boots with shorts and a cowboy hat while he cooked.

As the original River Rat, he honed his off-road driving skills and taught his kids how to have fun camping. His nickname, The Jolly Rancher, became legendary around the Canadian river and culminated in his triumphant victory at the 2008 Carnage race despite splashing enough muddy river water to fill his boots during the race. Over many years of cooking and camping, he built a following of friends and family as big as his personality and passed his love of it all on to his kids who continue to enjoy it to this day. Those friends and family will remember his unique way to express love and a zest for life few can match.

J.R. is survived by his wife Mary McWatters, his sister Pam Albertson, his five children, Christy Grimes, Melissa Johnson, Andrew, Jeffrey and Jesse McWatters. Last but not least, 6 wonderful grandchildren and 5 amazing great grandchildren. J.R. was preceded in his adventures by his father, James Arville McWatters, his mother, Georgia Sain McWatters, and his brother, Phil McWatters, they now welcome him to the greatest adventure of all.

In the spirit of J.R., we invite you to leave your own memories of this remarkable man on his memorial page. Please feel free to upload any photos you have of J.R. and his many adventures and let’s continue to write his story together. Join us in celebrating and remembering a man who was, in every sense, truly larger than life, “I Know That’s Right!!!”