Thelma Campbell Watts

Thelma Campbell Watts, 98, of Kingsport, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at her home. Born in Hallie, KY, she had resided most of her life in Kingsport. Thelma was a member of Long Island Baptist Church and retired as a teacher’s aide from the Sullivan County School System. Thelma loved sewing and cross stitching. She was a loving mother and Nanny Goose to all.

Thelma was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Riley Watts; brothers, Hazel, Benton, and Coleman “Dabber” Campbell; sisters, Lizzie Dixon, Zola Watts, Gradie Bradley, Irene Thomas; son-in-law, Robert Glen Graham; great-granddaughter, Delilah Kennedy Watts.

Survivors include her four sons, Richard Jr. Watts (Donna), Harry Watts (JoAnn), Larry Watts (Sue) and Gary Watts (Myra); daughter, Mildred Graham; grandchildren, Bradley Watts (Heather), Shad Graham (LaKeisha), Jeff Watts (Heather), Brian Watts (Bridget), Meldie Compton (Barry) and Mandy Smith (Jeremy); nineteen great-grandchildren; great-great grandchildren, Greigh and Graham Ward and Riley Jean Rivers; and sister, Arbadella Deaton.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. Funeral services will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Earl Hulse officiating. Music will be provided by Downpour.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at East Lawn Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Shad Graham, Brian Watts, Jeff Watts, Don Watts, Junior Watts and Barry Compton. Honorary pallbearer will be Bradley Watts.