Josephine Yeats Watts

Josephine Yeats Watts passed away peacefully on March 3, 2022, at the age of 96. Josephine (Jo) was born on August 3, 1925, in Gadsden, Alabama to Thomas and Faye Yeats. Jo was an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a wonderful Christian lady who was a faithful member of White Springs Baptist Church for over 60 years. She served there over the years in many capacities. She also served as a volunteer “Pink Lady” at the Baptist Hospital for a number of years. Jo was always a gentle person that looked for the good in people, and never spoke a harsh word. She was a wonderful cook, and avid gardener, hummingbird watcher, and was kind to everyone who knew her. She was an inspiration to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They loved their “Mimi”.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Faye Yeats, brothers Thomas Yeats (Marcie), Don Yeats, and sister Kathryn Fossett. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Charles E. Watts Sr. They were high school sweethearts, and he was the love of her life.

She is survived by her children and their spouses: Donna Watts Black (Rick), Charles E. Watts, Jr. (Jan); five grandchildren; Beth Black, Meg Irons (Dan), Phil Black (Rebecca), Blake Watts (Lindsay), and Haley Carn (Will); ten great-grandchildren, and her sister-in-law, Marie Skelton Yeats.

The family is grateful for the wonderful caregivers who provided loving care for her: Brenda Patterson, who has been with her for seven years, and who referred to her as “Her Baby”; Elizabeth Gibbs, who has been with her for four years; and Jane Clayton, who has helped with her care for four years. All of these women were faithful to her, through tragedies and with their personal families. Also, we want to thank Kindred Hospice and Dr. Layla Wren for their compassion and care.

There will be a graveside service at Crestwood Cemetery at 2:00 on March 6, 2022. Visitation will be immediately following the service at the cemetery. Her nephew Bart Watts will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, any contributions can be made to White Springs Baptist Church, 411 Rainbow Drive, Rainbow City, Alabama 35906; Big Oak Boys Ranch 250 Jake Mintz Rd., Gadsden, Alabama 35905; or the charity of your choice.

Pallbearers will be Phil Black, Benjamin Black, Rick Black, Will Carn, Blake Watts, Brett Watts, and Jimmy Watts.