Linda Sue Watts

Linda Sue Watts (Rickel) passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025 in her home in Nixa, Missouri. She was born in Gainesville, Missouri on March 22, 1947, the oldest child of Audie and Virgie Rickel. She grew up in Protem, Missouri, attending Mark Twin School, Forsyth High School and Southwest Missouri State University.

Sue was married to Jim Watts for 54 years, enjoying their time riding their motorcycle and traveling the country. She was a home maker and cared for her children Kelly and Eric. When asked what her fondest memories were, she stated that raising her children were her happiest memories. She loved her family, her “adopted” family and dear friends. She was an honorary mother and grandmother to a special few. 

Sue was passionate about mentoring children and urging them to live up to their highest potential. She often took her grandchildren and honorary grandchildren on vacations around the country. She was very accomplished in genealogy and traced her family lineage to the 1600’s. She was an avid reader and seeker of knowledge, especially history, genealogy, art and painting. Nature was her sanctuary, one of her greatest joys was being in the outdoors and hiking in the National Parks. She hiked miles with her family in Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier National Park and was thrilled when she was able to hike on the Appalachian Trail. 

Sue is survived by her husband, Jim Watts and her children, Kelly (Jeff) Shaw and Eric (Aleta) Watts, her beloved grandchildren Zoe and Clara and great grandchildren Noni, Isaiah and Ezekiel. Sue is proceeded in death by her parents Audie and Virgie Rickel.

She will be greatly missed. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rocky Mountain Conservancy in memory of Sue Watts.

A celebration of life will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, March 10, 2025 at Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, with Dr. Wade Bridges officiating. Interment will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa. 

Rmconservancy.org