Bently Gill Watts

Bently Gill Watts Jr., known as “Bud,” passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on March 27, 1937, Bud lived a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. He was blessed to share 65 years of marriage with the love of his life, Geneva.

Bud was a man of quiet strength who consistently demonstrated his love for God, his family, and his church. He was a lifelong and devoted member of Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church. Throughout his working years, he was employed at Amherst Motors and proudly served with the Pedlar Volunteer Fire Department. In addition, Bud raised beef cattle on his farm, embracing and appreciating life and country living.

Born at home in Amherst, Virginia, Bud was the son of the late Bently Gill Watts and Odell Myers Watts. He attended Amherst County Schools and spent much of his life caring for and supporting his family. On August 13, 1960, he married his beloved wife, Geneva Sale Watts. Together, they were blessed with a son, Bently Gill Watts III (Julie). Bud was a proud and devoted grandfather to Hilary Knowles (Ben) and Tyler Watts (Tyler), and he found his greatest joy in welcoming his great-grandchildren, William and Mollie Knowles.

Bud also shared close bonds with his nieces and nephews, especially Sharon Tinley (Marvin) and Susan Bailey (Steve), who were a cherished part of his family.

In addition to his parents, Bud was preceded in death by his wife’s parents, Forest and Nell Sale, and his brother, George Watts.

The family extends special thanks to Fairmont Crossing Health and Rehab Center, especially Nurse Kelsey, for the excellent care, compassion, and assistance provided.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bud’s honor to Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1553 Amherst, VA 24521

Visitation will be held beginning at 12:00 noon on Monday, February 2, 2026, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow in the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. All services will be held at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church.

Driskill Funeral Chapel of Amherst is assisting the family.