Obituary: Richard K. Watts 'Kelly' Watts, 70, Of Bethel

Information and Photo Courtesy Hull Funeral Home

BETHEL, CT — Richard K. Watts “Kelly” Watts passed away on Dec. 10, 2023, leaving his family in deepest sorrow. Kelly was born on Dec. 27, 1952 in Columbus, Ohio, and was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He will always be remembered by the music he brought into the lives of others. Kelly was a prolific songwriter and played many instruments, primarily guitar. Memories of him will be inextricably linked to the songs his loved ones will forever associate with him.

Kelly met his wife of 50 years, Cathy, in chemistry class at Northland High School and always said that meeting her was the single most wonderful and life-changing event of his life. Cathy stood by his side through the ups and downs of life, a steadfast pillar of love and dependability for him.

Throughout his life, Kelly was a voracious reader and passed along to his children a deeply ingrained curiosity and love of learning. He taught his children to stand up for their beliefs at any cost, question the status quo and embrace their creativity with full intention. He was also extremely hardworking, always tackling a project like renovating the house (from design to build), taking down a tree, or completing a woodworking project. Kelly also worked tirelessly to provide every opportunity for his children and encouraged them to pursue their passions. He was skilled in so many areas and took pride in progress and a strong work ethic. Kelly worked in construction and roofing, moved into lumber sales and ultimately taught himself computer programming and IT, which became his livelihood.

Kelly was an extremely intuitive man who shared a deep connection and genuine tenderness with those he loved. Kelly’s four grandchildren were the source of much pride and joy.

Kelly is survived by his wife Regina “Cathy” Watts; daughters Sarah Loveless (m. Benjamin Loveless) and Amy Watts Bovaird; grandchildren Graylin Bovaird, Beckett Loveless, Kinsel Bovaird, and Andeanna Loveless; sisters Rebecca Kirk and Elizabeth Watts; brothers Robert Watts and David Watts; and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his mother Elizabeth (Betty) Gross Watts and father Richard G. Watts.

A memorial gathering will be held in the new year to celebrate Kelly’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kelly’s memory may be made to the Housatonic Habitat for Humanity.

Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly. - The Beatles