Hezzie Watts, Jr., 74, of Gulfport, Mississippi, was born August 15, 1946, to Mrs. Mary Leggett Watts and Mr. Hezzie Watts, Sr. in Columbia, Mississippi. He was a Mississippi Gulf Coast resident for more than 50 years. Mr. Watts transitioned from labor to rest Sunday, April 4, 2021.

Mr. Watts was a 1964 high school graduate. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army where he served his country faithfully, until receiving an honorable discharge. Mr. Watts was member of St. Paul AME church and walked in the light of Christ. Mr. Watts's family will miss him sorely, but are comforted by the moments that they were blessed to share with him.

He was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. Hezzie Watts, Sr. and Mrs. Mary Leggett Watts; four brothers, Shelton Watts, Charles Watts, Elijah Ricky Watts, and Henry Watts; three sisters, Rubye Bradshaw, Annette Williams, and Mary Jean Black.

He is survived by loving and devoted wife, Malinda S. Watts; two sons, Donovan Watts, Rev. Cory (Troy) Watts; four sisters, Vertye Caples, Bertha Thigpen, Lavada Thomas, and Dorothy (Robert) Watts; six grandchildren, Steven, Zoey, Josie, Donovan, Jr., Tory, and Joy; one great grandchild, Cree, and a host of other relatives and friends.