Thomas Phillips Watts

Mr. Thomas Phillips Watts, age 74, of Thomaston, passed away on February 8, 2026. Thomas grew up in Thomaston, son of the late Aaron Watts and Willette English Watts. Thomas devoted 25 years of service to Winn-Dixie before continuing his career as the manager of Sav-A-Lot for an additional 13 years. Even after retiring, he stayed busy by working several part-time jobs.

Thomas was a martial arts instructor and taught women’s self-defense classes in Thomaston. He enjoyed fishing and hunting.  A family-oriented man, Thomas was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. When his daughters were young and played soccer, he became a certified referee so he could stay involved, always supporting and encouraging them. Thomas was known for being active in the lives of those he loved and will be remembered for his dedication to his family and community.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Miranda Watts.

He is survived by his bonus mom: Kay Paramore; daughters: Carly Shumate (Danny) and Stephanie Cleveland (Chris); grandchildren: Brianna Cleveland (Ryan), Zachary Piper, Cody Walker (Nevaeh), Jeffrey Roberts Jr. (Libby), Jerry Cleveland, Sabrina Moore (Steven) and Caitlin Shumate; great-grandchildren: Ty Gore, Mira Darville, Everleigh Moore, Jett Robey, Liam Goddard, Ian Goddard, Bellamy Daniel, Kaizen Walker and Aurlia Walker; siblings: Melody Bowles (Terry) and James Watts (Becky); and several nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his long-time companion: Malry Slaughter.

A Celebration of Life with food, family and friends will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, drop in from 2-4 p.m., at Shiloh Baptist Church, 2737 US 19, Thomaston.  

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 15, 2026, 2 p.m., at New Harmony Baptist Church, 163 New Harmony Church Road, Thomaston.  Pastor Tim Bosworth will officiate.