of Leslie, AR
August 13, 1927 - April 9, 2016
Harold Dean Watts age 88 of Leslie, AR died Saturday April 9, 2016 at his home. He was born August 13, 1927 near Landis, AR to Admiral Watts and Lena Pruitt Watts.
Harold Dean spent his early years on a farm on Seller Creek in Searcy County. At the age of 12, he went in a wagon with his Dad on his first trip into town. At the age of 18, he entered the United States Army and was stationed for some time in Korea. He worked many jobs during his lifetime. Some of these were raising livestock, row cropping strawberries and tomatoes, driving a school bus for Leslie School, and working 21 years for Smith's Service Station in Leslie. He was one of the most honest, hardworking, trustworthy people you could ever meet. He loved to hunt, fish, and help people. He was the Sunday School Superintendent and Deacon at the Thola Community Church for many years.
Survivors include his wife of 67 years Edna Lee Horton Watts of the home; 2 sons Jarrett (Terry) Watts of Leslie, Ricky (Vanessa) Watts of Leslie; 7 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; 1 brother V.C. Watts; 4 sisters Alta Watts, Lois Watts McDaniel, twin sister Wanda Watts Taylor, and Pauline Watts Ragland.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday April 13, 2016 at the Roller Coffman Funeral Home in Marshall with Jason Ragland and Kenny McDaniel officiating. Music performed by the Tuell Family. Visitation will be 6--8 PM Tuesday, April 12, 2016 in the Chapel. Burial will be in the Cypert Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Roger Ragland, Cliff Ragland, Harley Tuell, Wesley Smith, Rob Woods, and Charles McDaniel. Honorary Pallbearers are Keith Barrett, Larry Hoffman, Rick Hoyt, and Sonny Woods.
I remember Mr. Watts driving the Leslie school bus and being Ricky's dad. Always such a nice man, with a big smile. My dad, Gerald, thought a lot of him and enjoyed visiting with him at Smith's service station. Ricky and family, my prayers are with all of you, during this sad time. May you find comfort in knowing so many people care.
So sorry for your loss. Harold Dean was my Dad's best friend back in their school bus driving days. He was as honest and humble a man as you could find.
I'm so sorry to hear this. I've always thought a lot of him. I was a little girl when he worked at the station and he always took time to dribble and pass the basketball with me. My prayers are with you all.
We are so sorry to hear of Harold Dean passing. We know that your heart is broken and you will miss this fine man. We pray that Gods loving arms will surround you with his comforting embrace and bring you peace and knowing his battle is finally over. Some day you can be with him again.
Lance (Jeanie) McDaniel
We are so sorry to hear about Harold Dean,he was a good person ,and was liked by everyone that knew him.We send you all our deepest sympathy ,and prayers.
Our prayers for the family.
Such a sweet, gentle soul. I am blessed to have known this fine man. We will miss him.
I am so sorry for your loss, Harold was special to all who knew him.
Harold was my "Poppy" since 1990. I knew him better than my own grandfathers. He loved me as one of his own grandchildren. I am proud to be part of his family and proud to have known him all these years. He will be missed.