Ralph R. "Ron" Watts Jr.

Ralph R. "Ron" Watts Jr., age 82, of Kannapolis, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on January 29, 2026.

Ron was born on March 9, 1943 in Kannapolis NC to the late Ralph R. Watts Sr. and Elaine Kirk. Although his life took him to different places through work and service, he ultimately returned to Kannapolis.

Ron proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Communications Specialist, including being stationed in Germany. Following his military service, he earned a Business Administration degree from East Carolina College and worked for Wing Industries while raising his family in Monroe. After retiring from Wing Industries, he began a second career with Kannapolis Parks and Recreation, where he continued his dedication to serving the community.

Ron enjoyed a life centered on family, faith, and the outdoors. His favorite pastimes included hiking, beach trips, and boating on the lake. He was deeply involved in church life, serving as a deacon, choir member, and youth group leader, and cherished his relationships with neighbors, church members, school friends, and lifelong companions.

Ron attended Siler Presbyterian Church, NC, and later Prestonwood Baptist Church, TX.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Susan Ritch Watts, who passed away in 1989. Ron never remarried.

He is survived by his children: Laural Plyler and her late husband Chuck Plyler, Cheryl Marcum and husband Sam Marcum, Randal Watts and wife Fran Watts and Kerrie Harper and husband Greg Harper.

Survivors also include his brother Rick Watts (wife Beverly) and sister Cathy Fleming (husband Mike);

grandchildren Chad Plyler (wife Katy), Whitney Meyers (husband Coty Meyers), Christy Marcum (fiancé Kirk Lundell), Sarah Marcum (husband Ethan Baker), Jacob Marcum, Alex Harper, Marissa Watts and Miranda Watts;

great-grandchildren Cloey, Emma, Adalyn, and Theo;

and great-great-granddaughter Evelyn.

Ron was also devoted to his pets Jag and Jag II.

Ron will be remembered for his faithful service, love of family, appreciation for nature and the quiet strength with which he lived his life.

A viewing will be held on February 6th at 2:00 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home in Matthews, North Carolina. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m., with burial immediately afterward at Forest Lawn East.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.