Grady "Pete" Edward Watts

HICKORY- Grady E. “Pete” Watts, age 91, passed away Thursday, December 1, 2016 at Catawba Regional Hospice in Newton. Born November 22, 1925 in Burke County, he was the son of the late Lillie Watts. Pete served in the United States Army and was a WWII veteran serving as an auto technician with a rank of T5. He was an ambassador in Greece during World War II. He retired from the former Bob Dyer Ford as body shop manager. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his wife of over 60 years Pearl Shook Watts; son in law, Don Helton; grandson, Chad Helton; a sister, Betty Willis and a brother Earl Watts. Those left to cherish his memory are his son, Keith Watts and wife, Debbie of Wilkesboro; daughter, Vivian Helton of Hickory; grandsons, Damon Helton of Hickory; granddaughter, Kristi Helton of Hickory; great grandsons, Clay Helton and Justin Helton ; great granddaughter Sawyer Helton; and longtime companion, Shelby. The family will receive friends Tuesday, December 6, 2016 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Hickory Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 6, 2016 in the Chapel of Hickory Funeral home with Rev. Gavin Mize officiating. Burial will follow at St. Stephens Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod Cemetery with Military Honors by American Legion Post 544 Hickory. Memorials may be made to St. Stephens Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, Cemetery Fund, 2304 Springs Road, NE, Hickory, NC 28601 or to Augustana Lutheran Church, 1523 16th Street, SE, Hickory, NC 28602. Condolences may be sent to the Watts family at www.hickoryfh.com . Arrangements are with Hickory Funeral Home.