Deborah Joe Watts

Deborah Joe Watts, beloved daughter of the late Lewis Edward Joe Sr and Audrey Burrell Joe was born on February 6,1953 in Brooklyn NY. She entered eternal rest on Monday, September 21, 2026, at home in Salisbury NC surrounded by loved ones.

Deborah Joe was preceded in death by her brother, Lewis Edward Joe Jr. of Upper Marlboro MD.

Deborah spent her early years in New York, where she attended Grover Cleveland High School. Recognizing the value of higher education, she enrolled at Pace University, with a concentration in Business Administration. Deborah went on to become an executive manager at Chase Manhattan Bank, a position in which she thrived for 13 years. In 1990, she decided to relocate to Hampton Roads, VA. Deborah saw an opportunity with Southland Corporation and began working for them as a store manager. She excelled in this role and retired after 10 years as a field consultant.

Deborah’s hard work and determination were evident in everything she did. Her positive mindset helped her perfect both her managerial and motivational roles. This positivity extended beyond her work environment, as she motivated everyone she knew. Her outlook touched countless lives. She would often say, “If you put your mind to it, you can do anything and you will succeed.”

Deborah was a kind, caring, and loving person whose beautiful, light-hearted spirit touched everyone she met. She had a radiant presence that seemed to brighten any room she entered, bringing warmth, comfort, and joy to those around her. Deborah shared her life and happiness with her devoted husband, Ronald L. Watts. These two met in 1982 and were united in marriage on August 13, 1987. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories, sharing 45 beautiful years side by side.

Above all, Deborah Joe was a loving mother, and there was no greater joy in her life than raising her two children and extending a helping hand to others in need throughout the years. She was especially proud of her role as a grandmother, affectionately known as “Nana,” a title she cherished deeply.

Throughout her life, she touched countless hearts with her kindness, compassion, and selfless spirit. Her memory will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. Though her earthly journey has come to an end, the love she gave will continue to shine through the lives of those she leaves behind. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on for generations to come in the hearts and memories of all who loved her.

Deborah leaves a legacy of love and treasured memories: Husband, Ronald L. Watts of Salisbury, NC. Two Children: Ginelle Howard of Davidson, NC and Bobby L. Gibbs (Crystal) of Sophia, NC. Her eight beloved grandchildren: David Howard of Davidson, NC; Britni Carpenter of Salisbury, NC; Demi Grotschel (Dylan) of Stoneville, NC, Bobby Gibbs Jr. of Greensboro, NC; Daya Warner of Sophia, NC; Tyquan Danzine of Salisbury, NC, Immanuel Blackwell of Greensboro, NC, and Evan Gibbs of Sophia, NC. A host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. 

A Memorial service will be held at 1pm Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 16901 Old Statesville Road, Huntersville, NC 28078. A repass will follow the service at the same location.