Billy Watts

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Coach Billy Brown Watts, 92, of Concord, who passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024, at Five Oaks Manor.

A funeral service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, August 15, 2024 at First Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. Dr. Jim Collier and Rev. Aaron Edwards, with burial to follow at Carolina Memorial Park. The family will greet friends from 1:15 to 2:00 pm prior to the service.

Born on February 10, 1932, in Concord to the late Gladys Watts, Bill leaves behind a legacy of dedication and service to his community.

Coach Watts was the legendary head football coach at A.L. Brown High School in Kannapolis from 1968-1970, where he inspired and mentored countless students. He also served as an assistant coach at Winecoff and Concord High. In addition to coaching, Bill taught history and driver education, continuing his lifelong commitment to nurturing and educating young people.

Bill was a dedicated scholar-athlete, graduating from Lenoir-Rhyne University after receiving a four-year football scholarship. He furthered his education by earning a Master’s degree from NC A&T State University. His remarkable contributions to sports and education were recognized with his induction into the Cabarrus County Sports Hall of Fame in 2014. During his illustrious coaching career, he proudly coached five players who reached the NFL.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Mildred Patton Watts, and his son, William Patton Watts.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 200 Branchview Drive SE, Concord, NC 28025.

Coach Watts will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched. His memory will live on through the positive impact he had on the community.