Mertie Watts Wynn

Mertie Watts Wynn, the first-born daughter of seven to the late Jacob Watts Sr. and Redenie Ryals Watts, was born on June 18, 1943, in Townsend, Georgia. Much of her childhood was spent in Brunswick, Georgia, where she attended Perry Elementary School and graduated from Risley High School in 1961. Mertie furthered her education earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education in 1965. Her passion for Early Childhood Education continued as she obtained a Master’s Degree from Columbus College and her Educational Specialist degree from Troy University.

“She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31:26

In December 1965, Mertie married her high school sweetheart, Virgil Wynn, who enlisted in the United States Army. They traveled to Germany, where Mertie began her career as a teacher. Their union of 10 years blessed them with two beautiful and devoted daughters, Kyra (Kenneth) Slack of Lilburn, GA, and Sharona (Cedric) Fountain of Jonesboro, GA; and four cherished grandchildren, Kayla Slack, Jamarius Fountain, Sydney Fountain, and Carsten Fountain.

“Her children arise and call her blessed.” Proverbs 31:28a

In 1984, Mertie began teaching in the Muscogee County public school system at Carver Elementary School, initially teaching fifth grade and later finding her true passion with kindergarteners. In 1991, she moved to Brewer Elementary School, where she continued to nurture young minds. Mertie treasured her students and enjoyed taking her students on field trips to the zoo, animal farms, and the strawberry patch. She was loved by all her students, their families, and the extended community. Her “Kindergarten Crew” of teachers became like family to her.

Mertie was also a dedicated volunteer "Blanketeer" with Project Linus, an organization that collects and distributes blankets to children in hospitals, shelters, and social service agencies. During her service with this group, she made over 30 blankets for children who were seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need of a big hug. Sewing was one of her many passions.

Her community service extended to the Lydia Chapter No. 4 of the Order of the Eastern Star, where her philanthropy was honorable. Mertie was committed to working wherever she could be of benefit to the community.

“She extends her hand to the poor. Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.” Proverbs 31:20

Mertie was a woman of dignity with strong Christian values - truly a virtuous woman. She lived a full life of over 80 years and was a faithful member of Friendship Baptist Church, where she served for 46 years. Her church home was everything to her. Her dedication to teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, as well as her involvement with the Matron Circle (now known as Mission in Action), was notable. Mertie’s dedication and loyalty to her church was meritorious. Her legacy of faithfulness, kindness, patience, and humility will be remembered for generations.

Mertie Wynn was a sweet and kind spirit. She will be deeply missed by her loved ones who are confident that she is now present with the Lord. Among the many left to cherish her memory, she is survived by her children and grandchildren, her siblings Luther Ryals, Jacob Watts Jr., Veronica Lewis, Rosemary (Richard) Williams, Frank (Cathy) Watts, and Novella Walton, and a host of sweet nieces and nephews, relatives, church family, and special friends.

A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 3:00 PM at Striffler Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907. A Visitation will be held on hour prior for friends and family to gather.

If you would like to donate to one of Mertie's favorite organizations you can donate to Project Linus at https://www.projectlinus.org/donate.php