William Watts

Published 2:37 pm Friday, December 20, 2019

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones” (Psalm 116:15).

William D. “Dub” Watts, a godly man and true Southern gentleman, passed away on Dec. 20, 2019, at the age of 93.

Dub is survived by his faithful wife of 14 years, Annette Watts. Although he did not have his own children he was regarded as a strong father figure and grandfather to his step-daughters, Lisa Crain and Cheryl (Russell) Lambert; his nieces and nephews, Dr. Don Strain, Adrienne (Roland) Bassett, James (Martha) Strain, Carolyn (Frank) Payne, Veda (Edward) Matthews, Mary Ann Talbert, George (Donna) Strain, Steve (Maureen) Strain, Carey (Cathy) Howard and Billy Howard; grandchildren of his wife, Jensen Crain, Chelbe (Jonathan) Scianna and Elizabeth (Kenneth) Carroll; one great-step-grandson he adored, Kase Carroll; and numerous grand- and great-grandnieces and nephews.

Dub was preceded in death by his first wife of over 50 years, Gloria Strain Watts; his parents, Lorraine M. and Dewey Lee Watts; his brother, E.C. Howard; and nieces, Sharon Howard and Sally Howard.

Dub was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army. During World War II, he served bravely as an infantryman in the Philippines. He remained an active member of the American Legion. When he returned to Bogalusa, Dub and his father were the owners of Southern Supply. In the 1950s, Dub was an organizer of the Sheriff’s Posse. He delighted in riding horses in parades and exhibitions. His interest in animals continued through his membership in the Cattleman’s Association.

He was an active member of Superior Avenue Baptist Church. Dub served on many committees.

During his 30-plus years of retirement, Dub continued the family tradition of living in close proximity to “Watts Hill” on Highway 21. He maintained “Wilglo Farm” until his death. He loved the time he spent on his tractor and could be seen daily tending his cows and property.

He was a blessing to all who knew him and will be dearly missed.

Services celebrating his life will begin with a visitation at Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home on Thursday, Dec. 26, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. Then on Friday, Dec. 27, services will move to Superior Avenue Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. and continue until the funeral service begins at 1 p.m. The Rev. Clay Norwood will officiate.

Interment will follow at Ponemah Cemetery. Military honors will be presented by Magic City American Legion Post # 24.

Honorary pallbearers will be Steve Strain, Eddie Matthews, Carey Howard, Ricky D. Crain, Russell Lambert and Darrell Thomas.

Condolences may be shared on the Poole-Ritchie website at www.pooleritchiefuneralhome.com.