Edward Watkins "Watt" Meeler

DURHAM – Edward Watkins "Watt" Meeler of Durham passed away peacefully on Friday, July 25, 2025, with his family by his side.

Born in South Boston, VA, to Willie and Ruby Meeler, he was preceded in death by his parents and by his wife of 64 years, Margie Morningstar Meeler. Watt attended R.J. Reynolds High School in Winston Salem, NC and graduated from C.H. Friend High School in South Boston. After earning an associate's degree in bookkeeping, he was employed from 1949 until he retired from Liggett Group in 1994.

Watt and Margie married in 1950 and settled in Durham in 1953, where they raised four children and were members of Watts Street Baptist Church. They shared a love for travel, visiting all 48 lower states after their retirement.

An active man, Watt enjoyed golf, tennis, bowling, and dancing with Margie. He was a devoted amateur golfer, playing four days a week in retirement and achieving four holes-in-one over his lifetime. He also enjoyed music, playing the trombone in high school and later teaching himself to play the piano, clarinet, and organ. In retirement, he took up photography, capturing scenery on his travels, especially waterfalls and covered bridges.

Watt had a special love for dogs, often taking in those that were lost or abandoned and declaring each one the "greatest dog ever." He spent his final years at Croasdaile Village, where he made dear friends and appreciated the dedicated staff.

He is survived by his beloved children Marie, Linda (Ben), Betty, and David (Anita); by adored grandchildren Jennifer, John, Jack, Audrey, and Gillian; by treasured nieces and nephews Regina, Debbie, Danielle, Bill, Ken, Charles, Jerry, and their children; and by cousins John, Reid, Stephen, and their children.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 16, at 2:00 P.M. in the Few Interfaith Chapel at Croasdaile Village. The family will receive friends immediately after the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Watts Street Baptist Church or to the Residents' Association Employee Appreciation Gift Fund at Croasdaile Village.

The family is being assisted by Clements Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. in Durham. Online condolences may be sent to www.clementsfuneralservice.com.