Lewis Watts, 82, of Hickory, North Carolina, passed away Thursday, Nov. 17, 2016, at Frye Regional Medical Center.
Mr. Watts was born April 3, 1934, in Clayton to the late Jess and Ila Justus Watts. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by Ann Powell Watts, Rachel Watkins Watts, six brothers, J.C. Watts, Cloise Watts, Rubin Watts, Hubert Watts, Donald Watts and Calvin Watts, two sisters, Robin W. Ledford and Evelyn W. Kilby, a stepson, Rev. Marion Powell, and a step-daughter, Vera Ayers.
He was a devoted member of Springs Road Baptist Church and retired from the U.S. Army after 23 years of service. Also, he retired as a civilian from Huffman Metal Works after 26 years of service. Lewis was a Good Samaritan who enjoyed fishing, watching NASCAR and his favorite football team.
Survivors include his wife, Thelma G. Watts of the home, a stepson, Bobby Powell of Hudson, two stepdaughters, Betty Powell Berry of Drexel and Mildred Van Dyke of Hildebran, stepdaughter, Peggy Conner and husband Marc of Conover, a stepson, Travis Watts of Clayton, a stepdaughter, Yvonne Watts of Lakemont and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other family members.
The funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, at Springs Road Baptist Church with Pastor Jeff Brown officiating. Burial followed in Burke Memorial Park in Morganton with military honors provided by Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard Inc.
The family received friends from 12:45–1:45 p.m. at the church prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Springs Road Baptist Church, 3580 Springs Rd NE, Hickory, North Carolina 28601.
Online condolences may be sent to www.bass-smithfuneralhome.com.
Bass-Smith Funeral Home & Crematory in Hickory is serving the family of Lewis Watts.
The Clayton Tribune, Nov. 24, 2017
