In Loving Memory, Free From pain and Sorrow…

With humble hearts, we announce the passing of Willie "Jerome" Watts. God, in His infinite wisdom and grace, called, Willie Jerome Watts, affectionately known as "Jerome," from this earthly life to eternal peace in his heavenly home. At the age of 81, he peacefully departed this life at River View on the Appomattox Health & Rehab Center in Hopewell, VA. Jerome entered into eternal rest with his family by his side; peace and love surrounded him during this journey, ensuring he was never alone.

Born on June 11, 1945, to the late Ethel Lee Watts and Willie Hardy, known to all as Jerome, a private and fiercely independent soul with a kind spirit. He attended Peabody High School, where the values of hard work and determination that defined his life began to take shape. For many years, Jerome faithfully served as an employee of the Salvation Army, where he was known for his dedication, humility, and compassionate spirit. He earned the respect and admiration of coworkers, friends, and those he helped through his dependability, integrity, and quiet strength. His unwavering commitment to serving others and doing his work with excellence left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jerome was known for his warm and welcoming demeanor and generous spirit that naturally drew people to him. He had an ease with others that turned everyday encounters into meaningful connections. While kind and approachable, he was also strong-willed, outspoken, firm when necessary, and never hesitated to share his honest opinion. Whether offering encouragement, speaking truth with love, sharing a story, or simply lending a listening ear, Jerome had a genuine gift for making people feel seen, respected, and valued.

A devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Jerome found his greatest joy in his family. He treasured every moment with his loved ones and was a source of wisdom, strength, and unconditional love. His presence brought comfort, laughter, and guidance to generations of family members.

Most importantly, Jerome was a man of faith and a member of Mount Olive Baptist Church. He believed in the power of prayer and trusted God throughout his life. His faith sustained him through both joyful and challenging times, and he often encouraged others to remain steadfast in their beliefs.

Jerome was preceded in death by his parents, Ethel Lee Watts and Willie Hardy; his maternal grandmother, Emma Francis Hayes; his maternal grandfather, Henry "Friday" Watts; his beloved sister, Barbara Ann Watts Fisher ("Bobbi"); and his nephew, Devon Pulley.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his loving children: Aiketa Watts of Richmond, Virginia, daughter of his former wife, Brenda Watts, and Gloria Wormley Okonji of Atlanta, Georgia, daughter of Mary Wormley; six beloved grandchildren: Audonis Brown, Kahziya Brown, Cayla Baker, Cree'ana Williams, Cavi'aye Williams, and Trayton Williams; his brother, Walter "Junie" Watts of Harrisonburg, Virginia; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, former classmates, and loved ones. Among those holding a special place in his life were his devoted brother-in-law, Arthur Fisher, and his cherished cousins, Arnita W. Goode and Marloes Watts.

The family of Willie Jerome Watts extends heartfelt gratitude to all church families, prayer groups, relatives, friends, and neighbors who offered prayers, calls, visits, messages of encouragement, and acts of kindness during Jerome's illness and passing. Special appreciation is also extended to the doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff who provided compassionate care and support. May God richly bless each of you.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in knowing that Jerome's legacy of love, faith, kindness, and perseverance will be remembered and treasured in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Galatians 5:13 - "Serve one another humbly in love."
"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23
Forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

Services will be held 3:00 P.M., Friday, July 3, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/6031198?fl=so&fe=fs