Riley Watts Obituary

With hearts full of love and sorrow, we share the passing of our precious baby boy, Riley Allen Watts, who was born on July 8, 2025, at 6:48 a.m. at Johnson City Medical Center, weighing 4 pounds, 7 ounces and measuring 17.5 inches long. Though his time with us was brief, every moment was a gift-full of grace, purpose, and love.
Riley passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on July 12, 2025, at 3:16 p.m. at Johnson City Medical Center, a time that beautifully echoes the promise of John 3:16 -
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
We believe that just as God gave us Riley, He also welcomed him into everlasting peace.
The name Riley means "courageous," and our sweet boy lived up to that name in every way. His strength, even in the tiniest body, was nothing short of miraculous. He was a fighter, a light, and a reminder of God's presence in every heartbeat.
Riley was deeply loved and cherished by his parents, Bradley and Jada Watts, who will forever carry him in their hearts. He is survived by his Granny Miriam Shackleford, grandparents Mike and Debbie Watts, Rena Solesby, and Rick McKay, great grandparents, Marvin and Frances Watts, aunts and uncles Jessica and Gregg Hilemon, and Tyler and Kandace Watts. Great aunts and uncles Rick and Sandra Phillips, Deborah and Hovie Gregg, Connie McKay, Tim and Melonie Watts, and Tim and Cindy Stamey. His cousin Pepper Mae Hilemon will grow up knowing all about her brave and beautiful baby cousin.
Riley Allen was named in honor of his granddad, Rick Allen Shackleford, who preceded him in death. We find peace in knowing they are now together, held in the arms of our Savior. He was also preceded in death by his great grandparents James and Ida Mae Willis and Carol Stamey.
The Watts family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to those who walked this journey with them, offering compassion and care during their most difficult days. Thank you to Dr. Lauryn Gabby, who provided exceptional care during Jada's pregnancy, labor, and delivery, and to Labor & Delivery Nurses Haley, Holli, and Wendy for their gentle strength and presence. We are also especially grateful for Dr. Rachel Grove, Riley's devoted NICU doctor, and the incredible NICU nurses-Mandy, Amber, Sarah, Terry, and Savannah-whose love and dedication to Riley will never be forgotten.
Though Riley's time on earth was short, he changed our world with his strength and the love he brought into our lives. His life was a miracle, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who love him.
The family will recieve friends Tuesday from 4-7 PM at Jeffers Funeral Chapel at Afton. The graveside service will be Wednesday at 10am in Liberty Hill Cemetery with Pastor Bobby Hollingsworth officiating. Friends are asked to meet at the cemetery Wednesday morning for graveside services.