Watts Schwab

1943 - 2025

Watts M. Schwab of Charlottesville, Va., died on November 13, 2025. Born on October 22, 1943, in Charlottesville, she was the daughter of the late Ira and Margaret T. Maupin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, John D. "Denny" Maupin and by her beloved husband of 35 years, Bernard A. "Butch" Schwab, who died earlier this year.

Watts is survived by her three daughters, Clea Dezio (Jeff Mulfinger), Brooke Dezio (Eric Sartain), and Ashley Dezio Doherty (Paul); her grandsons, Benjamin Mulfinger, William Mulfinger, Spence Doherty, and Creighton Doherty; her brother and sister-in-law, Ira P. "Peck" and Brenda Maupin; sister-in-law, Sandra Maupin; and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by Butch's children and their families, Kevin Schwab, William "Dutch" Schwab, Carol Barnett (Ben), and Kurt Schwab (Theresa).

A proud Charlottesville native, Watts's fondest childhood memories included summer days playing in Belmont Park and, later at Fry's Spring Beach Club, listening to records and dancing with friends. She was president of her class at Albemarle High School and attended the University of Virginia, where she graduated with a degree in education. Her first job teaching English at Madison County High School was followed by several years as a stay-at-home mom. After a divorce, as a single parent, Watts reentered the workforce while also returning to school, this time at James Madison University to obtain a master's degree in library science. She ultimately became the librarian at Meriwether Lewis Elementary School where she shared her love of books and reading with countless students for over 25 years. She was instrumental in introducing the first automated library system to Albemarle County schools and advocated for the implementation of new technologies throughout her career.

Perhaps more than anything, Watts will be remembered for her devoted care of others, especially her mother and her husband, Butch. She will also be remembered for her warm personality, her intellectual curiosity, and her quiet confidence. She loved her daughters, their husbands, and her grandsons dearly and was fortunate to have had many close friends, several she had known for over 50 years.

Watts loved to play tennis, especially with the Key West ladies who maintained a regular Sunday morning game for decades. She also enjoyed reading, gardening, and decorating. She often hosted family and friends for a meal or a piece of her delicious pound cake at the Old Ordinary, her much-loved historic home of 49 years. But her favorite pastime was simply being with Butch, who opened her world, provided her much comfort, and made her laugh.

In February of this year, she and Butch moved to the Martha Jefferson House where she was lovingly cared for by a compassionate team of caregivers. Her family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the entire staff of the Martha Jefferson House, as well as the Hospice of the Piedmont team who expertly guided her through her final days.

A memorial service to honor Watts will be held at Pantops Community Church, 1525 Stony Point Road, Charlottesville on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 4:30 p.m., with a visitation prior to the service at 3:30 p.m. and a reception following. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Martha Jefferson House or Hospice of the Piedmont.