Eddie Dewayne Watts

Eddie Dewayne Watts

50, of Preble County, went Home, Sunday, July 6, 2025, after a long fight with cancer.

He was born August 7, 1974, in Dayton, and was raised by his dad and step-mom, Eddie and Jodee Watts.

Dewayne was preceded in death by his wife’s parents, Paul and Doris Tootle; grandparents, Pat Bowman, James David Ladd, and Ethel and Jack Watts; uncles, Coy and Jackie Watts; aunts, Tresa Watts and Rita Little; and granddaughter, Sammy Watern.

In addition to his parents, Dewayne is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Paula Watts; daughters, Alexis (Andrew) Watts and Derrica (Nick) Watts; grandchildren, Nathan, Amelia, and Daniel; siblings, Marty (Dan) Mack, Jason (Cheryl) Watts, Tommy (BJ) Cooley, Travis Rhodifer and Kimberly Perry; uncles and aunts, Mike Watts, Fern Watts, Henrietta Watts, John “Duke” Little and children, Joy Wallen, Bob (Sherry) Weidner, Tannas Bowman, and Wanda Sexton; and many more family and friends.

Dewayne's life was lived on his own terms, with the call of the wild in his heart, a blade or firearm never far from reach, and a book always within arm’s length. His passion for guns and knives wasn’t just about collecting, it was about understanding, respect, and connection to something primal and enduring.

He was most at peace under an open sky, whether deep in the woods, tucked inside a tent, or beside a crackling campfire. Dewayne believed any patch of earth could be a campsite if you had enough spirit, and he had plenty.

Movies of all kinds played a central role in his life- classics, thrillers, comedies, sci-fi. He’d watch anything. But if you really wanted to see his eyes light up, bring up The Incredible Hulk. Dewayne connected with the misunderstood green giant- strong, intense, and always fighting to stay calm in a chaotic world.

A surprising but deeply true part of Dewayne’s soul was his love for reading. He could devour a stack of books faster than most people could read the back covers. From westerns and horror to comic books and historical epics, he read with hunger and joy.

Rest easy, Dewayne. Hulk smash, always.

A visitation will be held Monday, July 14 from 11AM to 1PM at PREBLE MEMORY GARDENS FUNERAL CENTER, West Alexandria, with the funeral service to begin at 1PM.  Dewayne will be laid to rest Preble Memory Gardens Cemetery in the mausoleum.