Obituary of Ruthalee Watts Dukes

Ruthalee Watts Dukes, 86, widow of Joe Silas “J.S.” Dukes, passed away Friday, September 8, 2017 at Palmetto Health Tuomey.

 

Born in Turbeville, SC a daughter of the late William R. and Beaulah Marie Canty Watts, Ruthalee was a member of Lewis Chapel United Methodist Church for more than 60 years.  She was a homemaker and was passionate about her family.  She loved caring for her plants and flowers. 

 

Surviving are a daughter, Brenda D. Vaughn (David) of Sumter; a son, Joe Warren Dukes (Kathy) of Sumter; three grandchildren, J. Warren Dukes (April), D. Bryan Vaughn (Aubrey), and Lauren D. Watson (Mike); three great-grandchildren; one brother, Steve Watts of Bishopville; one sister, Hazel W. Rhiner of Sumter.

 

In addition to her husband of 58 years, and parents, she was predeceased by three brothers, Marion M. Watts, William R. Watts, Jr., and Warren L. Watts; two sisters, Aurelia Mae Winfield and Ann W. White. 

 

Funeral services will be held at 2 P.M. Sunday in the chapel of Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home, with Pastor Steve McCormick officiating.  Burial will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

 

The family will receive friends from 1 P.M. to 2 P.M. Sunday at the Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home and other times at the home, 3700 Beacon Drive.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lewis Chapel United Methodist Church Building Fund, 1510 Plowden Mill Road, Sumter, SC 29153.

 

On-line condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com

 

Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad Street, Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements (803) 775-9386.