Bettye Jean Emmanuel Watts

Bettye Jean Emmanuel Watts was born on April 20, 1941, in Rowland, North Carolina. Bettye was the cherished daughter of Isabelle McNeil Thompson and James Alford. She departed her earthly being on April 10, 2026, in Charlotte, NC. She was predeceased by her former husband, James Watts, whom she met in Queens, New York, and together, they raised five children and two grandsons. Also proceeding her to eternity were two sons, James Watts, Jr. and Kenny Watts, along with a special friend, Lawrence McGill. A beacon of education and ambition, Bettye graduated from Rosenwald High School at the top of her class before earning a degree from New York University. (If you knew her well, you know the story). She forged a commendable career as an accounts payable clerk in New York City and later embraced a fulfilling role as a textile weaver at J.P. Stevens, from where she retired. Her work ethic and dedication were admired by colleagues and friends alike. Bettye's life was also enriched by the simple joys she found in her hobbies. She had a passion for bingo, which she played with the competitive spirit of a seasoned expert. Her outdoor gazebo was her sanctuary; surrounded by her lovely garden and beautiful flowers, mirroring her nurturing soul and love for life. A devoted mother, she is survived by her children: Sheila Watts, Carol Watts (John), and Herbert Watts (Latonya). Her legacy of love and kindness lives on in her seven grandchildren: Shamontreal Watts (Jessica), Dontreal Watts, Shenita Jones (Zachary), Andrea Surratt (Tyrece), and Quinton Watts, as well her eleven great-grandchildren: Tanizja Brown, Cameron Watts, Markell Dawson, Makaylah Watts, Trinity Jones, Kaylen Sylvester, Serenity Jones, Kenny Sylvester, Aleyia Surratt, Zachary Jones III, and Aniyiah Surratt. Her legacy extends to her three great-great-grandsons: Carter Watts, Khalil Watts, and Camden Watts, each a testament to her enduring spirit. Her life was also blessed with the companionship of her special friend, Lloyd Kent Mitchell, and the love of countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives she touched with her gentle wisdom and unfaltering generosity.