Esther Rosalie Watts

Esther R. Watts, age 89 of Springfield, passed away July 6, 2025. She was born December 22, 1935 in Reeds Spring, the daughter of Miles Scelbert and Ellen Cordelia (Jones) Rantz.

On May 10, 1955 Esther married the love of her life, Bobby J. Watts. Bobby preceded Esther in death on June 9, 2016.

Esther worked 36 years for the Division of Family Services in Stone County before retiring as a case worker. She was a member of Galena First Baptist Church. Esther loved to spend time with her family. In her spare time she enjoyed reading.

Survivors include her daughters, Linda Smith and husband Terry of Ozark, Cindy Allen and husband Dervid of Galena and Sandra Watts-Turbyeville of Springfield; five grandchildren, T.A. Smith, Brandon Allen and wife Michelle, Caleb Turbyeville, Clayne Turbyeville and Calbryne Smith; and two brothers, Larry Rantz and Ted Rantz.

In addition to her husband, Esther was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Gerald Rantz and Darrel Rantz and a sister, Cleta Dickens.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 10, 2025 at Galena Cemetery, under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, with Ken Davis officiating.