Robert E. Watts

Robert Eugene "Bob" Watts, age 79, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at his home in Lenbrook in Atlanta, Georgia, after a courageous years long battle with ALS. With remarkable perseverance and an unwavering spirit, Bob maintained his independence until the end of his life. He continued to live life on his own terms, cherishing his family, his travels, and his beloved Highlands, the place he loved the most.

Bob was born on January 15th, 1947, in Meridian, Mississippi, to Wilbur Lewis Watts and Catharine Combs Watts. He was preceded in death by his adored wife of 45 years, Georgia Beth Kelly Watts, who passed away on March 8, 2019.

He is survived by his two sons, Robert Cole Watts (Anne Peden), and James Christopher "Jack" Watts (Sarah Hart); his cherished grandchildren, James, Betsy, and Leona; his sister, Jackie Joerns; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Bob graduated from the University of Mississippi with a bachelor's degree in Accountancy and later earned his Certification in Public Accountancy as well as a Juris Degree. Among many companies that Bob brought his distinguished career to, he was most proud of his acquisition of Electrical Insulation Suppliers (EIS). Throughout his professional life, he was respected not only for his expertise and integrity, but also for his willingness to share his knowledge with others. A gifted mentor, Bob generously offered guidance, encouragement, and practical wisdom to colleagues, friends, and family alike, leaving a lasting impression on countless lives. His steady counsel, thoughtful perspective, and quiet ability to make even life's most difficult decisions seem manageable are some of his character traits that will be remembered.

Beyond his professional career, Bob embraced life's adventures. An avid skier, accomplished sailor, enthusiastic golfer, and passionate traveler, he found joy in exploring the world and creating lasting memories with family and friends. He found great peace while sailing Lake Lanier and relaxing while overlooking the golfers and fishermen at his place in Highlands. He approached life with enthusiasm, determination, quiet confidence, and an appreciation for the people and places that enriched it.

Above all, Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He possessed a rare wisdom that drew people to him, and he was always ready to listen, offer thoughtful perspective, or lend a helping hand. His family will remember his steadfast love, his sharp intellect, his generosity of spirit, and his unwavering belief in helping others reach their potential.

Bob's legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the many people he mentored, and the example of integrity, kindness, and wisdom he shared throughout his life.

A service will be held on Friday July 17th at 11:00 am, at Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church to celebrate Bob's life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Horizons Atlanta, the Sandy Springs Mission, the Sherron Berg Early Detection Pancreatic Cancer Program at Emory or the Emory ALS Center in honor of Bob's courageous battle with ALS and in support of continued research and compassionate care for those living with the disease. These organizations were meaningful to Bob and Georgia and reflect the causes that touched their lives.