John Wayne Watts, born on March 24, 1954, in Oxnard, California, to Wayne Wilson Watts and Grace Lorrine Watts (née Langdon), passed away on March 21, 2026, three days shy of his 72nd birthday. He had been battling terminal liver cancer for a mere 22 days before his passing. John had resided in Cleveland, Oklahoma, at the time of his death.

Big John, a mountain of a man, had immense love for his children, grandchildren, dogs, and friends. His easygoing nature made him a natural friend, as he always had a captivating story to share. However, when the situation demanded, he possessed an uncanny ability to instill fear in others simply by his presence.

John, a master Harley mechanic and tool & dye maker, possessed an impressive knowledge of building and repairing classic Hogs. He generously shared his enviable motorcycle expertise with anyone willing to take the time to learn his declining craft. Riding his 1964 Harley-Davidson police cruiser on long road trips was his greatest passion. If you know her name, consider yourself a trusted friend of Big John’s.

He was an avid reader who enjoyed African hunting novels, Westerns, Gun & Reloading manuals, and motorcycle magazines. However, his all-time favorite book was The Man-eaters of Tsavo. He would read any book except for Moby Dick. The decades-long, hilarious whale war ultimately ended in a suspension of hostilities.

John, a man renowned for his impressive gun collection, dedicated his entire life to acquiring it. He had finally achieved his ultimate goal of owning the last of his bucket-list dream guns—a side-by-side double-barrel stagecoach shotgun when tragedy struck. Devastatingly, his gun collection was destroyed when catastrophic wildfires ravaged his home. Big John’s extensive book collection, cherished family heirlooms and childhood memories, and his prized gun collection were reduced to ashes.

Along with collecting them another beloved pastime of Big John’s was shooting all of his guns. He relished the process of reloading his own shells, crafting “light loads” for the children and “extra hot” rounds for the thrill-seeking adults.

As his life drew to a close John found solace in the presence of his cherished children, Crystal and Nathan, and his bonus children, son-in-law CW, and daughter-in-law Tiffani. He also visited with five of his six grandchildren, Jacob, Alexis, Ethan, Grace, and Dason, who all came by to shoot guns with their Papa John one last time. His sixth grandchild, Loren, who had passed away before him, delivered heavenly butterfly kisses to comfort her Papa John.

Carrie, John’s ex-wife and the mother of his children, prepared his final two meals: a comforting lasagna dinner and a delicious cheese omelet breakfast. His cousins from Missouri, Sunny and Phil, took him on his final outing to Hickory House, where they treated him to a mouthwatering chicken-fried steak dinner. Harley, a neighbor and close friend, regaled John with captivating stories of his thrilling motorcycle rides. Scott, another close family friend, stopped by to engage in a lively conversation about all things guns. John’s lifelong high school friend, Mike Mann, remained his steadfast confidant for over 55 years of unwavering friendship.

John received numerous calls from long-distance friends, who were deeply concerned about his well-being. They bestowed companionship, love, and support throughout his final days. Ultimately, the comfort of their voices guided him toward his final breath.

Knowing that his time as their best friend was limited, Popi John sent his beloved dog, Pepper, to comfort his three great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Axton, and Elena in his absence.

Big John, once burdened by the pain of medical negligence and perhaps a few regrettable life choices, has finally found relief. His restored body is now whole and free from suffering. He is now strong enough to kick-start “The B.B.”, tie an American flag bandana across his forehead, rap the pipes, and ride off into the sunset.

His time on Earth will be cherished by many, he will be missed by all, and anyone who knew him will love him forever. Fly high, big guy, 74 or more!

The date for Big John’s Celebration of Life will be announced soon.