William Edwin Watts Jr.

William E. Watts, Jr. (Bill) passed away on June 28th, 2023 in Jacksonville, Florida with family by his side. Bill was born on January 26th, 1942 in Griffin, Georgia. He joined the Army immediately following high school and spent 3 years growing into a solid soldier. He went on to proudly spend 20 years in the National Guard followed by 8 years in the Army Reserve. Notably, he was trained as a Russian linguist. He loved his Country. After military retirement, he began a career in Metal Roof/Wall Sales and found success again where he worked in his chosen career for decades.

Bill is survived by his wife of 28 years, Geri Watts. He is also survived by his son, Tripp Watts (Melissa) and stepchildren John Compton, Mike Compton (Tammy), and Cheryl Flanders (Jeff). Papa greatly loved his grandchildren and lived to endlessly spoil them. He will be more than missed by Dylan Watts (Colleen), Cody Watts, Adam Flanders, Carie Compton, Kendall Flanders, great-granddaughter Lyla Watts, and goddaughter, Megan White. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Rodney, and his daughter, Paige Watts.

After his marriage to Geri, Bill joined All Saints Episcopal Church in Jacksonville. As an enthusiastic Christian, he was a regular attendee and participated in the church’s ROMEO senior men’s group where he forged many friendships he would cherish in later life. He spent several years on the board of Edward Waters University’s Tigers Athletics Boosters, where he organized annual golf tournament fundraisers. He also volunteered tirelessly for the First Tee of North Florida. He introduced his wife and grandchildren to his favorite sport of golf and had many memorable golf trips.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at All Saints Episcopal Church 4171 Hendricks Ave. Jax., FL 32207 on Saturday, July 15th at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to immediately follow in Rogers Hall. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery at approximately 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to All Saints Episcopal Church in honor of Bill, c/o address above, or to First Tee of North Florida: firstteenorthflorida.org.