Edward Dean Watts

Edward Dean “Eddie” Watts, 62, passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Dighton-Marler Funeral Home in Stillwater. Interment will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Eddie was born on January 13, 1964, in Chandler to William Grayson Watts and Celia May (Gaither) Watts. At the time of his passing, Eddie worked as a carpenter for Oklahoma State University.

Eddie married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Rhonda, on May 15, 1982. From the time they first met, Eddie and Rhonda were inseparable, and their marriage was a true example of enduring love. Two years later, they welcomed their first child, Amber Dawn, followed by Ryan Edward in 1987.

Eddie loved spending time with his family, whether he was teaching his children to ride motorcycles, playing tennis or going on motorcycle rides with Rhonda, coaching Ryan’s sports teams, or cheering on his children from the sidelines. All the neighborhood kids knew where Eddie lived and were always knocking on the door, ready for him and his family to come play.

He also had a deep love for woodworking and was always quick to offer his talents to help others. Eddie and Rhonda spent countless hours building their children a dream playhouse in the backyard, making their home the place everyone wanted to be. Music was another passion of Eddie’s, and he could often be found singing and playing guitar alongside his brother Willie.

Becoming a papa brought Eddie tremendous joy, and he wasted no time spoiling his grandchildren rotten.

Eddie loved his family more than anything and was a truly special soul whose kindness, laughter, and generosity touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was the kind of person who would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need, never hesitating to lend a hand, offer support, or brighten someone’s day.

To Eddie, everyone was simply a friend waiting to happen. Whether through a warm smile, a funny story, or a pocket full of candy always ready to share, he had a gift for making people feel welcomed, loved, and valued.

Known for his sense of humor and contagious laughter, Eddie could light up any room and bring joy even during difficult times. Family, friends, and neighbors alike will forever remember the way he made everyone laugh and the comfort of simply being in his presence.

Eddie is survived by his loving wife, Rhonda, of the home; his children, Amber Saunders and husband Davis Saunders of Stillwater, and Ryan Watts of Stillwater; and his three beloved grandchildren, Addison, Skyler, and Kylie Saunders.

He is also survived by four sisters: Barbara Gabrish and husband Pat; Trish Langley and husband Danny; Marilyn Gay; and Rowena Gottfried and husband Ronnie; as well as one brother, Randy Watts.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five sisters, Leoda and Sandra Watts, Shirley Battles, Carolyn Jardot, and Opal Pritchet; and one brother, William Watts.