Vera B Watts

Vera Igusta Burnett Watts, born December 29, 1940, in Anniston, Alabama to Oscar and Mary Ellen (Henderson) Burnett and was the youngest of five siblings, all of whom preceded her in death (Willie George Simpson, Bertha Mae Dulin, Shedrick McConico, Dorothy Nell Fowles). As the last surviving sibling, she became the matriarch of the family, a guiding presence whose strength and love kept the family connected through the years. She was raised by her father, Oscar, and grandmother, Francis, after the passing of her mother when she was just nine years old. Vera graduated from Cobb Avenue High School in 1958, and shortly after, she married and welcomed her first daughter, Ellen Lorraine.

In 1962, Vera relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, where she continued to build her life. Four years later, in 1966, she was blessed with a second daughter, Stephanie Denise, expanding her family with love and joy.

Vera's career began humbly as a housekeeper, but she soon found her true calling at the Mint Museum of Art (City of Charlotte) in 1968. Her passion for art and all things beautiful flourished as she held various roles, eventually serving as Assistant Curator of the Delhom Gallery. Vera’s dedication and talent led her to make history as the first African American to hold a leadership position at the museum, where she retired in 1992.

After retirement, Vera made a significant move to Pflugerville, Texas, in 1993, where she became a full-time Grandma to her beloved grandson, Paul "PJ," and granddaughter, Alexandria "Alex." Vera's grandchildren were the light of her life, and she proudly took on the role of "best Grandma ever."

In her later years, Vera worked for a time at the Pflugerville Library and AARP, all while nurturing her love for art, flowers and jewelry making. She was a devoted member of Shoreline Church, where she served as a hostess-greeter, sharing her kindness and love of God until health challenges limited her mobility.

Vera’s life was a testament to kindness, grace, and unwavering love for her family. Her sweet spirit, gentle encouragement, and dedication to her love of Jesus and loved ones will forever be remembered. Though we will miss her smile and laughter, her love will live on in those she leaves behind.

Vera is survived by her daughters, Lorraine "Rainey" Watts and Stephanie Shipp, her grandchildren, Paul and Alexandria "Alex" (Solomon), great-grandchildren Rhyan and Cameron, 12 nieces, 6 nephews, and a host of family and friends who will carry her memory in their hearts.

The family will a have visitation to receive friends from 6:00-8:00 PM on Friday, February 7, 2025 in the Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home. The service will be held 11am on Saturday, February 8, 2025, in the Walden Room of Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home, the interment will immediately follow in the Cook-Walden/Memorial Hill Cemetery.

To post a tribute or memory of Vera’s life, please visit cookwaldencapitalparks.com.