Thelma 'Ruth' Millsaps Watson

Thelma "Ruth" Millsaps Watson, 88, of Sweetwater, went to her Heavenly home on Friday, April 19, 2024. She was a lifetime member of Cedar Valley Baptist Church and a long-time employee of Crescent Hosiery Mill. Ruth was a wonderful mother, Nana, loving friend, and heart of the family. Her family was her passion, along with baking, working in her yard, and spending time with her grand and great-grandchildren. She was best known for her macaroni and homemade sweet tea.

Preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, J.L. Watson, parents Jess M. and Troy Millsaps, and brother J.T. Millsaps.

Survived by daughter Beverly (Mike) Gourley, son, Mike (Lisa) Watson, grandchildren; Lacey (Marney) Watson, Elisha Watson, Josh (Julie) Gourley, Chelsea (Chris) Melton, and great-grandchildren; Jayven and Jansen Melton, Jay, and Jordyn Gourley.  Sister, Mildred (Austin) McKee, sister-in-law Betty Millsaps, brother Bill (Ann) Millsaps, and special friends Hubert (Bettye) Allen and Ruth Daily. Ruth is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the special caregivers Cindy Tallent, Elizabeth Smith, and Adoration Hospice. In lieu of flowers, to honor our Nana Ruth, please make donations to Jehovah Jireh Ministries c/o Cedar Valley Baptist Church, 765 Pond Creek Road, Sweetwater, TN 37874. Our Mother/Nana was always the first to take food to someone in need. This is a way for us to honor her memory by spreading the gospel and feeding those in need.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, April 21, 2024, from 5-7 at Loudon Funeral Home. The graveside service will be held on Monday, April 22, at 11:00 AM at Cedar Valley Baptist Church and will be officiated by Rev. Jeff Myers and Rev. Larry Gibby.