Ralph S. Watts

In Loving Memory

Born the youngest of six children, he was spoiled by his four sisters—and later by his beloved wife of 72 years, Faye.

At 17, he joined the United States Army and served with the 71st Infantry Division during the closing days of World War II, helping liberate concentration camps. After returning home, he met Faye, the love of his life. When she asked on their first date whether he had been in the Army, he replied, “I was the Army.” His wit and confidence remained hallmarks of his personality.

During the Korean War, he joined the United States Air Force and served stateside in a role he was “sworn to never reveal.” He was deeply proud of his military service.

He loved to dance, a passion that began with his sisters. Family memories include watching him dance with Mama and dancing with him while standing on his feet. He was also known for his polished appearance, handsome style, and signature cologne.

A talented brick and stone mason, he later worked as a courier at a furniture factory until being laid off at age 87—something he was not at all happy about! He was affectionately known as “The Book Man” for selling books at the old I-40 flea market and later enjoyed buying and selling used golf clubs and equipment.

Forever young at heart, he loved birthdays and being the center of attention. Above all, he loved his family and took great pride in his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He was truly blessed to have lived a full and remarkable life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 72 years, Faye.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters and their husbands:
Sundy and Jim Swanson
Tracey and Sandy Whisnant

His grandchildren:
Mark and Melissa Swanson
Heather Swanson
Taylor and Chris Powell
Tatianna Cline and Austin Bruhn
Hailey and Wade Bunce

His great-grandchildren:
Brandon and Macy Grindstaff
Blake and Kaitlyn Grindstaff
Smith Swanson
Peyton Brown
Ivey Powell

His great-great-grandchildren:
Blakely and Nash Grindstaff

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Brookdale-Falling Creek for their loving care.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a veterans’ organization of your choice.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel at Jenkins Funeral Home, 4081 Startown Road, Newton, NC, Pastor Aaron Causby will officiate. Burial will follow at Conover City Cemetery with Military Honors. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service in the Celebration Center at Jenkins Funeral Home. 

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memorial Wall at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton 828-464-1555.