Gene Edward Watts, 92, a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, died on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Generations of Chapin.

Gene was born on Thursday, April 14, 1932, in Cherokee, South Carolina, to the late Sydney Lewis Watts and Margaret Watts. He proudly served his country with honor as a Navy carrier pilot on the U.S.S. Randolph, bravely participating in the Korean War, Budapest Rebellion, the Bay of Pigs Invasion, and the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Aside from his distinguished military career, Gene was passionate about engineering and innovating. He loved to work on his vast collection of antique clocks, but his most prominent invention was his motor, the GWRPM, which he even patented. His integrity and commitment were evident in everything he did, endearing him to friends and family alike.

Gene was a proud member of the Band of Brothers, an organization of fellow veterans that mirrored the values of courage, loyalty, and unity that he lived by. He also possessed a spirit of generosity, shown through his dedication to supporting St. Jude's Children Hospital.

Gene's life was defined by service, love, and devotion to both his country and family. He is survived by Wes (Tina) Watts, son; Holly (Drury, predeceased) Mims, daughter; Wade Watts, son; John Dru Mims, grandson; Claire Haffley, granddaughter; Weston Watts, Jr., grandson; and four great grandchildren.

Gene was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Nina Ruth Watts, as well as his grandson, Drayton Mims.

A service will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025 at 3pm at Fort Jackson National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a cause close to Gene's heart, St. Jude's Children Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or https://www.stjude.org/give/planned-giving/charitable-cash-donations.html

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Gene Watts.