Ella Jean (Copass) Watts

Paradise ~ Ella Jean Watts, 86, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, September 23, 2023 in Decatur, Texas surrounded by family and dear friends.

Funeral services are at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 30, 2023 at Grace Baptist Church in Decatur; the family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the church. Burial will be at Highland Cemetery in Iowa Park, Texas at 3:00 p.m. Saturday.

Pastor Bill Hughes will officiate with Pastor William Brooks. Pallbearers are Cody Deaton, David Warner, Juan Martinez, Rick Aaron, Kaz Jones, and Chance Gibbs. Honorary Pallbearers include Shay Aaron, Michael Thomas, Xander Jones, Uriah Jones, Maverick Martinez, Greysen Martinez, and Keegan Thomas.

Jean was born October 23, 1936 to James Loyce and Euna Belle (Bachman) Copass in Dickens County, Texas. She and Allen Wayne Watts were united in marriage on December 21, 1952 when they eloped to Clovis, New Mexico. Jean loved to travel and discover new places. As an Air Force wife she lived in Alaska, North Carolina, Alabama, New Mexico, Texas and Hawaii. She and Wayne often piloted their plane on vacations. Favorite destinations included Mt. Rushmore, Mackinac Island, Maui (island hopping), the Caribbean or anywhere there was an airstrip or a cruise ship. They continued to travel after settling in Wise County almost 40 years ago. It was here that she earned her private pilot’s license.

Jean was passionate about gardening, canning, making sweet treats, and making sure she fulfilled her bluebird landlord responsibilities. The family dogs and cats were spoiled by Jean and, in exchange, they brought her hours of entertainment.

Before retirement, Jean managed the Decatur Airport and as well as manager of Wise Flying Service. She was especially proud to be a charter member of the Decatur Citizens Police Academy (and the Alumni Association), and took great joy in being a faithful member of Grace Baptist Church where she delighted in teaching children’s Sunday School and Vacation Bible School and helping the children to come to know God.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, James and Euna Copass; her sister, Sydney DeLois Fowler; and her brothers, Perry Edward Copas and Ernest Bryan Copas.

Those left behind to cherish her memory are her daughter, Beverly K. Jacobs and husband Steve of Alvord; sister, Mary Ann Copas and partner Victor of Graham; granddaughter, Sandy Michelle Thomas and husband Michael of Bridgeport; and 2 great-grandchildren, Eric Hill and Keegan Thomas as well as many nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

The family is grateful to the amazing staff at the Hills Nursing and Rehab facility in Decatur. They made a difficult time easier for Jean with their dedication and incredible kindness.

Should you wish to make a donation in Jean’s memory, Cal Farley’s Boy Ranch and organizations protecting animals were very close to her heart.