James Watt was buried on September 2, 1819, in the graveyard of St Mary's Church, Handsworth. The church has since been extended and his grave is now inside the church.

James Watt died on August 25, 1819, at his home, Heathfield Hall, near Handsworth in Staffordshire, England, at the age of 83. He was a highly respected figure of the Industrial Revolution.