Margaret Ruth Watts

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Margaret Ruth Watts, who left us on May 8, 2025, just shy of her 89th birthday. Born on June 20, 1936, in South Carolina, Margaret spent her life in Gastonia, North Carolina, where she touched the lives of many through her vibrant spirit and caring nature.

Margaret was a proud owner and operator of Robin's Dress Shop, a beloved local business she ran for over 25 years. She had a true passion for fashion and enjoyed helping her customers find the perfect outfit. Beyond her entrepreneurial spirit, Margaret was also an active member of her community, having been a long-time member of United Baptist Church in Gastonia and, prior to that, Faith Baptist Church in Kings Mountain.  She was also a member of Woodman Life for over fifty years. Margaret had an adventurous side, loving to travel and explore the world around her, including trips by air, bus, and cruise ships. She also delighted in shopping, finding joy in both the hunt and the treasures that came with it.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Peak Resources, Gastonia for all of the excellent care they provided for Margaret.

She is survived by her daughters, Donna Anderson, Cindy Runyan (Gregg), Debbie Barkley (Kevin), Maria Stevens (Jeff); sister, Doris Upchurch; grandchildren, Stephanie Summey, Donnie Hilton, Angela Keziah (Chris), Alexander Runyan, Logan Forester (John), Robbie Bridges (Megan), Ryan Bridges (Alex), Tyler Stevens (Madison); great grandchildren, Meghan Shumaker (Tyler), Loghan Hilton, Jaecob Hilton, Luke Bridges, Colton Bridges, Rhylee Bridges, River Bridges, Noah Stevens and Baker Stevens; great great granddaughter, Maevis Shumaker; special niece, Belinda Moss (George); special friend, Dale Nichols; step daughter, Lynn Ward and her children, Jeremy Wright, Nevaeh Wright; and many other nieces, nephews, family and friends;  who carries forward Margaret's legacy of love and kindness.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the visitation taking place at Greene Funeral Service South Chapel on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 6:00 - 8:00  PM. A funeral service, officiated by Pastor Ray Pennell, will be held at the same location on  Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM, where we will gather to celebrate Margaret's life and the joy she brought to all of us. Following the service, she will be laid to rest in entombment at Westview Gardens, Bessemer City.

Margaret will be dearly missed, but her spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Steve "Chew" Watts; parents, Frank and Nellie Heath; grandson, Michael Ellis; step grandson, Justin Wright; siblings, Virginia Tatham and Junior Heath.

Memorials may be made to United Baptist Church 1970 Lowell-Bethesda Rd. Gastonia, NC 28056.

Condolences may be shared online at:  www.greenefuneral.com.