March 8, 2011
Watts, William M. “Willie”
William Martin Watts, a longtime resident of Roslindale, died peacefully Saturday, March 5, 2011 with his grandson Gareth W. Watts and his friends by his side at the Stanley Tippett House in Needham. He was 86. Mr. Watts was born in County Galway, Ireland and was the son of the late William and Mary (Burke) Watts. He worked as a mechanic for the Hartney – Spray Corporation in Dedham and when they moved to Norwood. He worked for them for over 35 years. Willie also ran Watts Gardening Services as a side business for many years. He was predeceased by his wife, the late Margaret (Molloy) Watts, and his daughter, the late Monica Watts. “Willie” is survived by his grandson Gareth W. Watts of Roslindale; his sister Maura Lawrence of England, and Kevin Watts of Ireland. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends. He was the brother of the late Joseph Watts, Terry Watts, Patrick Watts, Frank Watts, Desmond Watts, and the late Kathleen Watts. Visiting hours will be held Thursday, March 10, 2011, from 5-8 pm at Folsom Funeral Home, 63 Belgrade Avenue, Roslindale. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Friday at 10 O’clock at Sacred Heart Church, 169 Cummins Highway, Roslindale. Burial will be private. Donations in Willie’s memory may be made to the Stanley Tippett House, 920 South Street, Needham, MA. 02492.
Comments(4)
Dear Gareth and the Watts family and friends,
What a huge loss for our World. Bill was a dear friend all of my life. His kind, encouraging words and generous personality always brightened my life. I will miss his smile and that brogue I struggled with all those years! Our recent phone conversation will be treasured all the more now that I know it was our last… Bill will be missed but never forgotten by me and my family. May you feel his HUGE presence in your hearts, Always.
We are sincerely sorry for your loss,
Heather and Bob William
Richard Schaefer and Brandon and Dylan William
To Gareth and the Watts family,
My prayers and thoughts are with the Watts family at this sad time. “Willie” was the kindest, cheerful and most generous person I have ever known. We had often talked about going back to Oughterard together, but I guess it was not in God’s plans. I have such great memories of our family holidays together, and how Willie always brought happiness and warmth to every occasion. May “God Bless” and watch over you.
I am so happy that I was able to visit Willie this past November. My deepest sympathy, Jim Gallo, North Port, Florida
Dear Gareth,
Willie was a big part of my childhood and my life. He always made me feel very lucky he was my Godfather. When we were kids (Eileen, Andrew, Sheila and I) Margaret and Willie were a big part of our family life – there for birthdays, holidays, Sunday visits and anytime my parents needed help. In later years, I was happy to get to know you as a kid and to spend time with you, see you confirmed and watch you grow up. In recent years, we appreciated Willie being good to my father when he was ill.
I was so sad to hear of Willie’s death but felt so much better seeing you last night and knowing that you’re happy, healthy and doing well. We appreciate all that Ellen and her mom did to make Willie’s wake last night so comforting. We will see you today at the mass. Please keep in touch with us and know you are in our prayers and Willie will always be fondly remembered by our family.
Love,
Maureen (Creaton) Murray, South Boston, MA
Dear Gareth
My parents just sent me an email headed “Your first grown up friend” to tell me the sad news of Uncle Willie’s death. Willie was indeed my “first grown-up friend” and I told him this every time I’d see him at my grandparents’ house in Hyde Park. He was my favorite relative, a joy to see and speak with and entertain with my little jigs. I’ve seen very little of him over the past 15 years as I’ve been living in London but his smile and laughter are strong memories. He was always so proud of you and your love for baseball.
My thoughts are with you, Ellen, and your extended family.
My deepest sympathy
Kristen O’Sullivan