Mary “Ruth” Mathews Watts
Mary “Ruth” Mathews Watts, age 80, of Centreville, AL passed away peacefully Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at Bibb Medical Center Nursing Home. She was born June 5, 1944, to the late Archie and Ida Snow Mathews of Six Mile, AL. She is leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.
Born with a kind and nurturing spirit, Ruth was a devoted educator, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was the beloved wife of Earl Watts, with whom she shared 58 beautiful years of marriage. Their love story was one of unwavering commitment, friendship, and deep affection.
Ruth was a proud mother to two children: Lane Watts Lightsey (Darryl) of Centreville, and Mat Watts of Centreville, who were the light of her life. Her heart expanded even more as she became a grandmother to four grandchildren: Katie Lightsey Crumpler (Dillion) of Brent, Brett Lightsey (Kaci) of Centreville, Drew Watts of Centreville, and Libby Ann Watts of Centreville and a great-grandmother to three great-grandchildren: Jackson Crumpler, Ellie Ruth Crumpler, and Dre Crumpler. Great grandbaby number four, Cooper Adam Lightsey, will be arriving sometime in October. Ruth’s family was her greatest joy, and she showered them with endless love, wisdom, and support.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents Archie and Snow Mathews of Six Mile and her brother James Mathews (June) of Centreville.
Her presence will be dearly missed by all who knew her, but the warmth of her love and the strength of her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.
Pallbearers are grandchildren and nephews: Brett Lightsey, Drew Watts, Dillion Crumpler, Darold Mathews, Greg Mathews, and Heath Johnson.
We thank you for joining us in remembering Ruth’s wonderful, beautiful, and full life. Your kindness and love towards our family during this difficult time has not gone unnoticed and we are eternally grateful. Please consider making a contribution to Brent Methodist Church 190 Tabernacle Rd, Brent, AL 35034 in lieu of flowers. Condolences for the family may be left on the guest registry at www.dignitymemorial.com
Funeral services to honor and celebrate Ruth’s life will be held at Brent Methodist Church at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024, with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. at the Church. Graveside service to follow at Pineland Cemetery in Centreville, AL.
