Dorothy Watts Obituary

Dorothy Watts, affectionately known as "Lady D" beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, at the age of 71. She was surrounded by her loving family at her home in Suffolk, Virginia. Dorothy was born on March 14, 1954, in Harlem, NY to Wilhelmina Hodges and Dennis Watts Sr, The second oldest of nine children. She was preceded in death by her parents; Wilhelmina Hodges and Dennis Watts, her siblings Jill Hodges, Dennis "Junior" Watts Jr, Laura "Jackie" Hodges, Jerry Coleman.
Dorothy rededicated her life to Christ as her Lord and Savior in 2004, and love attending Enoch Baptist Church with her family. Dorothy was a source of unwavering love, strength and guidance to her family and friends. She dedicated her life to raising her children, caring for her family and was a pillar of strength to all who knew her. Dorothy was truly considered another mother to so many, with her quick cuss outs and a warm plate of food to soften the blow after! Dorothy's life can best be encapsulated by five "F" words: Family, Friends, Flowers, Food and Fun. Up until the end Dorothy maintained her passion for life. She had a strong work ethic and worked in many positions, but her two favorite job positions were as a bar maid and CNA. Dorothy's real passion came in the form of cooking, family gatherings, and a good party which she enjoyed with great enthusiasm.
She was known for her Facebook posts and being placed in Facebook jail constantly by family and friends. Dorothy was the epitome of a classy diva full of style, grace and poise. She carried herself with elegance, spoke with warmth, and left an impression wherever she went, a true one-of-a-kind classy diva, known for wearing gowns and stilettos.
Dorothy will always be remembered by anyone who has had the honor of meeting her.
She cherished family gatherings, holidays and celebrations that brought warmth and joy to those around her. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but her legacy of love and kindness will live on in our hearts forever.
Dorothy is survived by her beautiful and loving
Michelle Watts, Donnell Watts, Joshua Terrell Simon, Kishawna Monique (Keith) West
Shauntelle Wright, Angela Gaines, Precious Gaither, Tara Johnson, Tasha Young, April Gilyard Ricardo Williams
In addition to her children, Dorothy is survived by her siblings:
Judy "Candie" Fortune, Middletown, NY
Carolyn "Carol" Watts Harlem, NY
Eugene "Brother" Watts; Queens, NY
Ronnie Watts; Syracuse, NY
Richard (Gwen) Harrell Jr.; Endicott, NY
Thomas "Tom Tom" Harrell; Brooklyn, NY
Lawrence (Ursula) Harrell; New Bern, NC
Hattie "Su-Su" Harrell; Oriental, NC
Tyronne (Soyica) Harrell Sr.; Raleigh, NC
Danasia, Jahstinyia, Ravaunn, Tanequa, Tanaisha, Jahnasia, Shaniya, Joshua, Declan
Tatianna, Heavyn-Leigh, D'von Jr.
Haven, A'Veiah, Ace Armani, Seven,
Saniah, Teyana, Aleem Jr
As well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will miss her dearly.
Memorial Service:
COME IN PERSON OR WATCH ONLINE
Saturday, August 9, 2025
12 Noon
Metropolitan Funeral Service
5605 Portsmouth Boulevard
Portsmouth, VA