Sunny Watts

John Earl Watts, better known to his friends and family as Sonny passed from this life on Wednesday, February 25, 2015, at his home in Jennings, Oklahoma, at the age of 75 years, five months and eighteen days.

Sonny was the son of Joe Andrew, Sr. and Etta Pauline (Stubing) Watts. He was born on September 7, 1939, in Nixon, Texas. As a young man Sonny attended several schools and was raised by his Aunt Bessie and Uncle Earl. Sonny had to quit school at a young age to help provide for his family. At the age of 17, Sonny joined the United States Marine Corps and in 1956 began serving his country. He served his country proudly until he was honorably discharged in May of 1962. On November 14, 1960, Sonny was united in marriage to Melba C. Beaver. Following his discharge the two moved to the Jennings area where he has continued to reside. Sonny worked for the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority for over 17 years when he was forced into retirement in 1994, following injuries received from a motor vehicle accident while working for the Turnpike Authority.

Sonny enjoyed hunting and fishing. He also liked gardening until his health prohibited him from doing so. He also enjoyed country and western music as well as gospel music. Sonny was a member of the First Baptist Church for many years.

Survivors are his loving wife Melba of the home; two sisters Katherine Guttizer and her husband Terry of Austin, Texas; Bessie Watts and her husband Kermitt Crone of Seguin, Texas; brother in law Clyde Beaver and wife Darlene of San Bernardino, California, James Beaver and his wife Georgia of Cushing, Oklahoma, Bonnie Casey and her husband Jesse of Stillwater, Oklahoma and numerous other relatives and friends that will mourn his passing. Sonny was preceded in death by his parents.

Chapel services will be held Friday, February 27, 2015 at the Chapman-Black Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Casey Muse officiating. Burial will follow in the IOOF Maramec Cemetery in Maramec, Oklahoma under the direction of Chapman-Black Funeral Home.