Mary Elizabeth Watts-Schille

Mary was born on February 18, 1963, in Okinawa, Japan , to Nancy Hunter Watts and Major General David E. Watts. As the daughter of a military family, Mary spent her childhood living in various locations throughout the United States and abroad, including Heidelberg, Germany. These experiences helped shape her open-hearted nature and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

In September 2005, Mary found her life partner and soulmate, Joseph Wiesen, with whom she shared a deep bond built on love, friendship, laughter, and unwavering support. Mary became a Florida State Certified Dental Assistant and devoted 18 years of service to the practice of Dr. Douglas Genninger. Throughout her career, she earned the respect and affection of countless patients through her exceptional skill, warm demeanor, and genuine concern for others. It was not uncommon for Mary to recognize former patients years later and greet them with her signature smile and uncanny memory.

Beyond her profession, Mary dedicated herself to helping others. She volunteered her time at community non-profit dental events and was an active member of a 12-step fellowship for over 22 years. Recovery, service, and compassion were not just principles Mary believed in; they were the foundation upon which she lived her life.

Mary had an extraordinary gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. Her heart belonged especially to children. While she deeply treasured her own sons, she extended that same nurturing spirit to every child she encountered. Neighborhood children were always welcome in her home, where they found food, comfort, encouragement, and often a place to stay the night or month. To Mary, every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and important.

She also possessed a unique compassion for the elderly, especially veterans. Whether at a grocery store, community gathering, or holiday celebration, Mary could often be found sitting beside someone who seemed alone, listening intently to their stories and reminding them they mattered. Friends and family frequently found themselves asking, "Where did Mary go?" Only to discover her comforting a stranger, entertaining a toddler, or brightening someone's day with a smile and conversation.

Mary's kindness knew no boundaries. Whether at a neighborhood market or an upscale resort, she effortlessly connected with people from all backgrounds. She believed every person deserved dignity, acceptance, and unconditional love.

Those who knew Mary will remember her for her radiant spirit, infectious sense of humor, remarkable wisdom, and fierce determination. She was loving and gentle, yet strong and unwavering when standing up for those she cared about. Very few people possess the level of acceptance and compassion that Mary carried so naturally throughout her life.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Nancy Hunter Watts and Major General David E. Watts, and by her brother, David Watts, who was her closest childhood companion.

She is survived by her devoted life partner, Joseph Wiesen; her son, Colin Schille, and his wife, Cheyenne Schille, along with their children Freya, Liam, and Amelia; her son, Ian Schille; daughter-in-law Alicia Stevenson and her husband Brian; grandchildren Remi, Hailey, and Bradlee; her sister, Carrie Watts-Monaghan; and her brothers, Christopher Watts, Bruce Watts, and Matthew Watts. She also leaves behind countless friends, colleagues, fellow recovery community members, and all whose lives were enriched by her kindness and generosity.

Mary's legacy is one of love in action. Through her service, compassion, laughter, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, she touched countless lives. Her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, and forever dear."

All family & Friends are invited

A Celebration of life on January 9th, 2027, from 11:30 am- 3:30 pm, in Downtown Tampa at the Portico Cafe & Social, located at 1001 North Florida Ave. Tampa, Florida 33602

“Street parking available with limited lot space on property “