LaJoyce Locke Watts

In Loving Memory of LaJoyce Locke Watts

LaJoyce Locke Watts, lovingly known as "Mimi," passed on August 1st, 2026 peacefully into the presence of her Lord, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, unconditional love, and steadfast devotion to her family. LaJoyce was born on October 25, 1942, in Camden, Texas, to Cleo and Jesse Locke. As the youngest of ten children, LaJoyce grew up surrounded by a large, loving family that helped shape the compassionate woman she became.

On October 20, 1961, LaJoyce married the love of her life, Emory C. Watts, Sr., in Pasadena, Texas. Their 64-year marriage was a beautiful example of faithfulness, commitment, and enduring love. Together, they built a life centered on God, family, and serving others. Their love story reflected the very qualities they cherished most—honesty, loyalty, kindness, and unconditional love.

LaJoyce was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was the proud mother of Terresa Watts Langston (Rocky), Emory C. Watts, Jr. (Jennifer), and Rodney Watts (Kelly). Nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with her family, encouraging them with her wisdom, prayers, and unconditional love.

Throughout her career, LaJoyce served others with dedication and professionalism. She began as a switchboard operator in downtown Houston and later became the first female insurance agent at Farm Bureau Insurance- Livingston, before continuing her career with Evans & Associates Real Estate and proudly owning a Merle Norman Cosmetics business. Whether in the workplace or the community, she carried herself with grace, confidence, and unmistakable class. Always beautifully put together, she had a gift for making others feel welcome, valued and like family. No matter where she worked or who she encountered, she built lasting friendships and touched countless lives with her warm smile, caring heart, and genuine kindness.

Throughout her life, LaJoyce faithfully served the Lord as a member of Damascus Baptist Church in Corrigan, Texas, Memorial Baptist Church in Pasadena, Texas, and Central Baptist Church in Livingston, Texas. Her faith in Christ was the cornerstone of her life. She never hesitated to remind those she loved—and even complete strangers—to trust God in every season of life. Whether life brought blessings or hardships, her answer was always the same: "Trust God." If someone asked LaJoyce to pray, they never had to wonder if she actually would. She was a true prayer warrior who faithfully lifted others before the Lord. Her prayers were sincere, heartfelt, and constant, and she found great joy in encouraging others through God's Word. Her steadfast faith inspired everyone around her and left an eternal impact on countless lives.

She treasured her role as "Mimi" to her grandchildren: Brittany Gaston (Brandon), Brady Langston (Christy), William Langston, and Ryan Watts (Bailea). She was also blessed with her great-grandchildren: Hayden Gaston, McKenize Gaston, Lilah Emery Watts, Seaman Hayden Lynch, U.S. Navy, Collin Lynch, Caleb Sims, John Green, and Mikell Green II, each of whom brought her immeasurable pride and happiness.

LaJoyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Emory C. Watts, Sr. ("Big E"); her son, Emory C. Watts, Jr.; her son-in-law, Rocky Langston; and her siblings, Jim Bob Locke, Ada Vee Loving, Lina Tarver, Jessie Locke, Jr., Martha Tarver, Janell Lang, and Jay Locke.

She is also survived by her extended family, including 16 nieces and nephews, 44 great-nieces and great-nephews, and a host of great-great-nieces and nephews, all of whom were blessed by her love and generous spirit.

Serving as pallbearers are Brady Langston, William Langston, Ryan Watts, Brandon Gaston, Hayden Gaston, Seaman Hayden Lynch, U.S. Navy, Collin Lynch, and Caleb Sims.

LaJoyce was the definition of love, grace, and class. She lived every season of her life trusting God and reminding those around her that He always has the final say. Her faith never wavered, and because of that, we rejoice knowing she is finally at peace in the arms of Jesus.

Although our hearts ache with her absence, we find comfort in knowing this is not goodbye—it is simply, "See you later." Her love, kindness, strength, and wisdom will continue to live on through each of us. We will honor her by loving one another, leaning on our faith, and remembering the incredible woman she was.

We smile through our tears knowing that a beautiful reunion has taken place. Papa had her chair waiting for her. What a joyful moment it must have been to see the love of her life once again and to hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23).

Rest peacefully, Mimi. Your eternal joy has begun. You will forever be loved, forever missed, and forever in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to:

Damascus Cemetery Fundc/o Sherri Locke140 Shotgun LaneCorrigan, TX 75939