Jerald Watts

Jerald W. “Jerry” Watts, age 77, of Crooksville, passed away on November 2, 2026, at Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio, following a lengthy bout with health issues. Jerry was born on March 10, 1949, in Bristol, Ohio, and he spent his life rooted in the community he called home. He was a man known for his warm smile, easy conversation, and the kind of presence that made others feel welcome. Jerry lived a life centered on family, friendship, hard work, and service, and he carried those values with him throughout his years. He worked for many years as a core driller with American Electric Power, from which he retired, and later continued his work as a core driller with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Jerry was also deeply involved in his community. He served multiple years as Harrison Township Trustee and took that responsibility seriously, always striving to be helpful and attentive to the needs of others. He was a member of the New Lexington Elks, the Crooksville Legion, and the Crooksville-Roseville VFW Post 9090. These associations reflected the many ways he stayed connected to the people and places he cared about. Outside of work and service, Jerry enjoyed life to the fullest. He was an avid golfer and especially loved playing at Perry Country Club during the week. He enjoyed trips to Myrtle Beach, listening to music, and cheering on the Crooksville Ceramics and the Ohio State Buckeyes. He was very social and loved spending time with family and friends. During the warmer seasons, he especially enjoyed hosting company at his swimming pool, where laughter, conversation, and good memories were always close at hand. He was always willing to help others and share a joke or a laugh, and that generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Jerry attended Maple Ave Christian Church and found strength in his faith and community. He was a devoted family man who treasured the people in his life above all else. He is survived by his daughters, Miley (Shawn) White and Shayla (Darron) Rambo; his grandchildren, Olivia (Jamarr) Watts, Lauren (Chase) Alfman, Trey (Ashton) White, Colton (Lelila) White, and Tyler (Averee) Rambo; his great-grandchildren, Brayden, Daxton, Nash, Eliott, and Gia; his sisters, Connie (Dave) Moore, Kathy (Tony) Begnaud, and Christina Petronzio; his sister-in-law, Becky (Jack) Allen; his special friend, Charm Collins; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever cherish his memory. Jerry will be remembered for his kind heart, his humor, his loyalty, and the genuine love he showed to those around him. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ladonna Watts, and by his parents, William “Bink” Watts and Donna (Eveland) Watts. Calling hours will be held Thursday November 5, 2026, from 3pm – 7pm at Ross-Frash Funeral Home, 207 Burley Street, Crooksville. Funeral services will be celebrated Friday November 6, 2026, at the funeral home beginning at 12:00pm with Pastor Jonathan Thomas officiating. Burial will conclude in Iliff Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to his wife