Elizabeth Watts Obituary

Elizabeth Watkins Watts, a beacon of kindness and a cherished presence in her community, passed away on July 4, 2025. She was born in Oxford, North Carolina, on September 20, 1946, and her vibrant spirit and warmth touched the lives of all who knew her.

Elizabeth's journey through life was marked by her unwavering dedication to nurturing those around her, both as a devoted homemaker and a philanthropist. She earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in French from Meredith College, and her passion for learning was matched only by her desire to share that knowledge. As a long-standing member of Oxford Baptist Church she participated as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, Girls in Action mentor and was also a proud choir member. She participated in mission trips to Honduras and Haiti, sharing her love of God through words and acts of kindness. Elizabeth uplifted and inspired others through her profound understanding of life and faith.

Beyond her church involvement, Elizabeth thrived in various community engagements. She was a member of the Garden Club, a museum docent, and was in the Literary Club, where she passionately pursued her love for reading and knowledge. She served as a Board Member of the Oxford Housing Authority and an active volunteer at CCM, where she made a notable impact in her community.

As a Navy wife for twenty-six years, Elizabeth embodied resilience and grace while supporting her husband, Harry Franklin Watts, Jr., for 39 years. Together they faced life's challenges, and their enduring love remains an example of commitment. She also treasured her beloved son, John Franklin Watts, whose memory, along with those of her late parents, John Norman Watkins and Marjorie Gholson Watkins, and her sister, Cynthia Watkins Potter, will always be a part of her legacy.

Elizabeth is lovingly survived by her daughter, Cynthia W. Favor of San Diego, CA, and her granddaughter, Marjorie Anne Favor of Durham, NC, who carry forward her spirit of kindness and dedication to helping others. Her zest for life, jovial demeanor, and commitment to community service have solidified her place as a beloved figure in the lives of family, friends, and all who were fortunate to cross her path.

In the comfort of her home in Oxford, North Carolina, Elizabeth concluded her extraordinary journey. While her physical presence has transitioned from this world, her essence — imbued with love, joy, many talents, boundless compassion, and an unyielding spirit — remains forever etched in the hearts of all who knew her as mother, friend, and mentor.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate the life of Elizabeth will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Oxford Baptist Church. Family and friends are invited to gather and pay their respects during the visitation, which will take place on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Gentry-Newell & Vaughan Funeral Home. We welcome all who knew and loved Elizabeth to join us in remembering a life well-lived and cherished. The family appreciates donations in her memory to Church & Community Ministry (CCM), which was very dear to her heart, located at 1200 SE Industry Dr, Oxford, NC 27565 and mailing address is PO Box 1649, Oxford, NC 27565. 

The Watts family is being assisted by Gentry-Newell & Vaughan, located at 503 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565.