Lonnie Watts Jr. Obituary
We announce the death of Lonnie Watts Jr. of Fort Smith, Arkansas, who passed away on August 10, 2026, at the age of 78. Lonnie will be remembered by family members, friends, and others whose lives were connected in meaningful ways. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Lonnie Watts Jr. to pay them a last tribute.
He was predeceased by: his parents, Lonnie Lee Watts Sr. and Callie Lee Watts (Wesson); his wife Emma Jean Watts (Williams); and his siblings, Garleon Watts, Clovis Watts, Clovus Watts, Theron Watts, Zeola Howard and Lucille Troop.
He is survived by: his children, Derrick Joe (Nicole), Veronica Roy (Darcey), Christopher Watts, Nicole Watts and Brandon Watts (Concietta); his grandchildren, La-Danya Henderson, Danica Henderson, Stevie Williams Jr., Isaiah Joe, Kristiana Watts, Jacob Joe, Jon Joe, Tatiana Watts and Caleb Watts; and his brothers, Houston Watts and Emanual Watts.
In recognition of his professional accomplishments and contributions to education and his community, Henderson State University named Lonnie a Distinguished Alumnus in 2014, the university's highest alumni honor.
