Roland Smith Watts of Winston-Salem, NC and High Rock Lake died July 28, 2012, at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. Mr. Watts was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on March 5, 1931. He was the son of the late Dr. Maurice L. Watts and Mrs. Garnelle Smith Watts. His early years were spent in Raleigh, NC where he attended public schools. Following graduation from high school, he enrolled at A&T College (now NC A&T State University). His college career was interrupted by two years of service in the United States Army. After completing his military service, he returned to college and earned an undergraduate degree, subsequently receiving a Master of Science degree from NC A&T. He continued his studies and received the Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Mr. Watts served as professor and chairman of the Fine Arts Department at Winston-Salem State University, and retired from the University after 39 years.
Well-recognized for his extraordinary talent as an artist, Mr. Watts put together 10 one-man exhibitions and participated in 29 group shows in several cities in North Carolina and other states. He was said to be "one of the most productive and best known woodblock printers in the Southeast." Moreover, he designed the Chancellor's Mace for Winston-Salem State University, which is a rod with an ornamental head carried on ceremonial occasions such as Commencement. He also designed the Ram Plaque used for the development fund. Mr. Watts was affiliated with many organizations in his field. He was a past board member of several organizations including the Gallery of Contemporary Art; Piedmont Craftsman, Incorporation; Arts and Crafts Association; and Art Gallery Originals. Also, he held previous memberships with Associated Artists of North Carolina and the North Carolina Art Education Association. Additionally, he was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi and Sigma Pi Phi Fraternities, and a former member of the Torch Club. He attended Wentz United Church of Christ in Winston-Salem, NC.

Mr. Watts is survived by his loving wife of many years, Dr. Velma Gibson Watts; daughter, Rolonda Watts of Los Angeles, California; son, Brett Watts of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; goddaughters: Kelli Luck Slade, Esquire, Atlanta, Georgia and Susan Harrison, Laurel, Maryland; godson, Dr. Mark Oliver, Winston-Salem, NC; and Turquoise B. Erving of Winston-Salem, NC who was like a daughter; several other relatives, and a multitude of friends.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00PM on Tuesday, July 31, 2012, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 950 File Street. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests contributions to the Fine Arts Department at Winston-Salem State University and/or the Gordon Watts Scholarship at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.

A special note of heartfelt gratitude is extended to Dr. David Jackson of the Wake Forest University Physicians for his excellent and persistent care throughout the years, and particularly during Mr. Watts' recent period of illness. Appreciation is also offered to Dr. Brenda Latham-Sadler and the physicians and medical staff of Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center and for all other acts of kindness and concern.

For a copy of the Funeral Program, click here