Rickey "Rick" F. Watts

Rickey “Rick” F. Watts, 70, of Summit, died June 1, 2026 cloaked in the love and prayers of his friends and family. Rick was born to Albert “Fuzz” Watts and Helen Roberts Watts in Natchez, MS on May 28, 1956. He married the love of his life, Jacqueline “Jackie” Patt Watts, at the Pearl River Ave United Methodist Church in McComb, on June 2, 1978. He was an equipment mechanic master for 34 years with MDOT before retiring. Working on engines was a passion that shaped both Rick’s personal and professional interests and hobbies. One of his favorite memories was teaching his wife, Jackie, to drive a stick shift. He loved visiting the MS Gulf Coast for Cruisin’ the Coast and camping. He loved traveling and riding his motorcycle, especially in the country. If you asked what his biggest accomplishments were, he would tell you his friends and family, including his fur babies. His biggest life lesson was that “you need to be self-sufficient.” Being self-sufficient makes it possible to follow your passions and fill life with things that bring you joy. Rick was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Cynthia Ann Watts Hodges; infant brother, Thomas Columbus Watts; father and mother-in-law, Willie and Sylvia Patt; and 2 special brothersin-law, Bobby Welch and Larry Barlow. Rick is survived by his wife, Jackie Watts; daughter, Rikki Leanne Phillipson (Sam); brother, Albert “Buddy” Watts (Becky); uncle, Glyn “Dick” Watts (Glenda); grandchildren, Cailyn Brown (Brandon Jones), Bella Brown (Ben Mixon), Evan Johnson, and Nathan Johnson; 3 great-grandchildren, Sloan Brown, Ellis McCaffery, and Davis Wayne Jones; 3 bonus grandchildren, Blake Phillipson (Madison), Ethan Phillipson, and Emily Koestler (Tobbie); 2 bonus great-grandchildren, Sawyer and Mazelynn; fur babies, Tilly Grace and Rocky; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family whom all loved him greatly. Rick will be immensely missed by his friends and family. His legacy of love, resilience, and strength will remain a blessing to all who knew him. A short service and celebration of life honoring Rick will be held on Saturday, June 6, at McComb First Assembly of God, 718 Hart Road, McComb, MS 39648. Visitation will be from 12PM to 2PM with a service to follow. The service will be performed by Pastor Jim Dalton, with a eulogy by Pastor Mack Bryant. Sharing of memories, stories, or words are welcome and appreciated. However, if you wish to share but do not wish to come forward, please write it down for Pastor Mack to share on your behalf. Two of Rick’s favorite things were food and fellowship, especially if the food happened with the fellowship. In keeping with these favorites, there will be a potluck meal at First Assembly following the memorial and celebration of life. Bring your favorite dish, pictures, and memories to do what Rick loved best: food and fellowship. For those who choose, flowers/plants can be sent to McComb First Assembly, or donations can be made in Rick’s name to the church McComb First Assembly, Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary, or any dog rescue/sanctuary.