JT Watts

In Loving Memory of JT Watts February 5, 1950 – June 21, 2026

JT Watts was called to Heaven on June 21, 2026, at the age of 76.

Born on February 5, 1950, in Crawfordsville, Indiana, JT was the son of John and Mary Watts. He grew up surrounded by family, friends, and the values that would guide him throughout his life.

JT attended Coal Creek Central High School before continuing his education at Murray State University, where he was a proud member of the AGR Fraternity and part of the Gamma Pledge Class. Following college, he built a successful career managing Tractor Supply Company stores and later serving with the Farmers Home Administration, where he dedicated many years to supporting rural communities and agriculture.

On June 30, 1973, JT married the love of his life, Mary Etta Watts (Cash). Together they shared nearly 53 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, laughter, faith, and unwavering devotion to one another. Their greatest blessing was their daughter, Stephanie (Watts) Koenig.

JT's life was further enriched when Stephanie married Brett Koenig, whom he loved as a son. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Tommy, Nick, and Jackson Koenig of Barrington, Illinois. His grandsons brought him endless joy and purpose. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with them—whether fishing, golfing, attending their baseball and football games, or simply enjoying being together. Being "Grandpa" was one of the roles he cherished most.

A man of strong faith, JT was a devoted member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Danville, Illinois. He was also a proud member of the Danville Boat Club and enjoyed the friendships and fellowship that came from being part of his community.

JT was a golfer, a gardener, a grandfather, and a gatherer of friends. He had a remarkable gift for bringing people together and making everyone feel welcome. Whether on the golf course, tending his garden, sharing stories with friends, or cheering from the sidelines, JT found joy in the people he loved and the life he built with them.

One of JT's favorite traditions was attending the annual Fancy Farm Picnic. He looked forward to it every year and especially enjoyed working alongside the Cash Crew, helping sell barbecue and, of course, enjoying plenty of it himself. The laughter and friendships made there were among his favorite memories.

JT is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his daughter, Stephanie Koenig, and her husband, Brett; his grandsons, Tommy, Nick, and Jackson; his sister, Marcy (Watts) Ritchie and her husband, Steve; his brother, Lynn Watts and his wife, Cindy; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends whose lives were made better by knowing him.

Those who knew JT will remember his warm smile, generous heart, quiet strength, and steadfast presence. He lived a life rich in faith, family, friendship, and simple pleasures. While our hearts ache with his absence, we are grateful for the countless memories he leaves behind and the example of love and kindness he set for all who knew him.

“We will endure a lifetime of missing you for the privilege of loving you.”

And as JT's life reminds us:

"And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make."

Though he is no longer with us, his love, wisdom, and spirit will remain in our hearts forever. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. ❤️

A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate the life of JT Watts will be held at 12 PM on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Danville. Father John Cyr will officiate. Visitation will be held from 10 AM – 12 PM prior to the service on Wednesday, also at St. Paul in Danville. JT will be laid to rest at 2 PM at St. Jerome Cemetery in Fancy Farm, KY on Thursday, July 2 with Father Darrell Venters officiating the committal.

Please join JT’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.