Obituary of John Watts

John B. Watts was the first of nine children. He was born in De Soto, Georgia to HW and Mary Eliza Watts. At the age of 3 years, the family moved to Detroit, Michigan where he grew up and attended school. John attended Duffield Elementary School and Miller High School, graduating in 1957. He attended the Detroit Institute of Technology and in 1959, earned a degree in Electrical Engineering. After graduating college, he married his wife of 55 years, Marilyn Louise Stafford. He began his employment with RCA Company. He worked on the Ballistic Missile Early Warning System, stationed in Thule, Greenland. After the project in Thule, RCA relocated John and his family to Middlesex, New Jersey. He worked several years for RCA and Lockheed before changing careers. His aspiration was to become self-employed. He pursued a career in insurance. John later earned the designation of Certified Financial Planner, CFP. He maintained a successful business for over 40 years. John, being business savvy, made a strategic decision to partner with World Market Allianz, (WMA) a successful insurance franchise. He managed 200 employees, who respected and loved him. He had a presence that made you want to listen whenever he presented to either employees or potential clients. He was an inspiration and a role model for his children. They adored and idolized him. John received many professional awards and citations. Among these were; WMA Senior Marking Director, The European Cruise, The Empire Team MVP Award, Transamerica, Top 20 Agency Builder Award, American Skandia Outstanding Service Award, and the Allianz Masters Forum Gold Club Producer, Outstanding Achievement Award. This is only to name few. He loved the comradery with the guys, from the regular Saturday playground basketball games, the Brothers team, bowling league to the 3-4 miles jogging sessions with his friend. His belief was “A healthy body and a healthy mind” was essential to a long and healthy life. John was a member of the UBFFT, The United Black Families of Freehold Township and the NAACP. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Watts; four children, Michael Watts, Michele Reeves, Janine Watts and Jermel Watts; nine grandchildren, Loboris Ross, Sydel Reeves, Rasidne Reeves, Nathaniel Watts, Debra Foster, Tyler Watts, Christopher Foster, Anthony Foster, and Venece Watts; one great grandchild Ryanne Reeves. He is also survived by two Daughters in law, Barbara Watts and Deena Foster; three brothers, Willie Watts, Ralph Watts, and George Watts; four sisters, Katie Gorman, Rose Tolbert, Virginia Watts, and Towanda Johnson; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He is predeceased by one sister Linda Watts. He was taken away so suddenly, and will be missed dearly. His legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, and future posterity. Funeral services will be held at the Abundant Life Church of God, 632 Colts Neck Road, Freehold on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. The viewing will be held at the church on Saturday from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m