Former Gorgas High School Cheerleader Hilda Fay Lunceford Watts, 86, Died, Preceded by Her Husband!

Hilda Watts outlived her husband of 59 years, William, by almost 8 years.

August 12, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on August 12, 2026

Hilda Fay Lunceford Watts passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family at the age of 86.

Born on October 21, 1938, in Samantha, Alabama, Hilda Watts is survived by her two kids, daughter Sonya Watts and son, Kevin Watts.

Her son, Kevin, broke his silence on her demise, writing:

Heaven just gained a sweet angel this morning. She’s finally at peace and suffering no longer and reunited with Pop. Keep our family in your thoughts and prayers please. We love you Mamma and will miss you dearly. ❤️❤️❤️

She also leaves behind her grandson, Drew Watts; granddaughter, Karley Perry (Alex); and great-granddaughter, Lillian Watts.

Likewise, Hilda is also survived by her brother, Donald Lunceford (Barbara); brother-in-law, Jerry Watts (Kaye); and many nieces and nephews.

Hilda outlived her husband, William Watts, by almost 8 years. He passed away on December 19, 2017, at the age of 85.

Hilda with her husband, William. (Image Source: )

The former cheerleader, Hilda, and her husband, William, were married for over half a century, i.e., 59 years to be precise.

William, the fourth of nine children, served proudly in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He was stationed on the USS Iowa and the USS New Jersey.

It was after he served the country that William crossed paths with the love of his life, Hilda.

Hilda’s husband, William, died in 2017. (Image Source: )

Similarly, she was preceded by her parents, Melvin P. & Temperance Lunceford; brother, Gaines Lunceford, sister Annette Watkins, and nephew, Larry Watkins.

Born as the third of four children, Hilda grew up in a tight-knit family and was an active member of her high school community.

She was a graduate of Gorgas High School and was known as a cheerleader.

After graduation, she met the love of her life, William Watts, and they spent 59 years together. They raised their tight-knit family of four in the Northside/Samantha area.

Throughout her life, Hilda was deeply involved in her community. She was a loyal member of Campground Methodist Church, where she was a part of the United Methodist Women’s Group.

She also supported the Northside Lions Club, Samantha Fire Department, Northside Athletics, and Northside Band Boosters.

Her contributions went beyond just supporting local organizations, as Hilda also spent many years as a sales lady for Avon and retired from the Tuscaloosa News after 19 years in 1997.

In her later years, Hilda enjoyed spending time gardening, traveling to her second home in Orange Beach, and making precious memories with her family.

Reportedly, her funeral service is scheduled for Friday, August 15, 2026, at Campground Methodist Church, with visitation from 1-2 p.m. and services beginning at 2 p.m. The burial will follow in the church cemetery.

During this difficult time, we pray for the strength of Hilda’s kids and extended family.

Rest In Heavenly Peace, Hilda Fay Lunceford Watts!

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Aditi is an avid music lover whose interest's goes beyond the realm of music, with passion in digital marketing. A Gen Z who loves her personal space and is keen to exploring new things. An optimist who seeks silver lining in every circumstances life throws at her.

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