Charlotte W. Vertrees

Charlotte was born on June 11, 1953, in Marshall, Texas. Her parents were Dr. Thomas Watson and Dr. Arden Kidd Watson, both of whom preceded her in death. As a child, she moved with her family from Texas to Oklahoma and Arkansas, where she developed a lifelong love of college football.

She later settled in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where she attended Bowling Green High School and met the love of her life, Thomas Vertrees. Charlotte and Tom were married on November 11, 1972, beginning a devoted marriage filled with love, adventure, and shared experiences.

Together, they raised two children, Michael Vertrees (Angela) and Christine Vertrees Sadler (Trey). Charlotte was a devoted grandmother to Lane Sadler (Mallory) and Riley Sadler (Lauren), and a proud great-grandmother to Ridley, and Lena, each of whom brought her immense joy.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Charles "Pete" Festervand, and is survived by her siblings Patsy Fitzgerald and John Watson, along with many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.

Charlotte had a deep love for the outdoors and adventure. She hiked much of the Appalachian Trail and the Camino de Santiago, accomplishments that reflected her strength, determination, and curiosity about the world. She and Tom shared a passion for travel, together visiting 36 countries, 47 states, and several islands, and even crossing the equator at the International Date Line-experiences that spoke to Charlotte's adventurous spirit and love for learning about people and cultures. Some of her most cherished trips included a safari in Africa and a memorable journey to Belize with Tom.

Above all, Charlotte made the most of her time here embracing every opportunity to explore, connect, and live fully. She approached life with curiosity, gratitude, and an open heart, leaving behind memories and relationships that will be cherished by all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held at J.C. Kirby & Son Funeral Chapels on Lovers Lane on Thursday, January 29, 2026, with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. and a service to follow at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Sarah Cannon Cancer Research Institute in honor of Charlotte's life and strength.