Algie Watts Obituary

Watts, Algie Randolph "Randy," 80, of Hopkins, South Carolina, passed away on October 11, 2025. Born in Columbia, Randy spent most of his life in the Midlands of South Carolina. He earned a degree in electrical engineering from the University of South Carolina. Randy was a dedicated employee of the Public Service Commission of South Carolina and the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff, retiring from State employment after more than 37 years. Randy enjoyed metal detecting, working in the yard, traveling, playing tennis, Clemson football, and Elvis music. Known for his many repair projects, his sister often said, "Randy can fix anything." Randy was also known for his love of Zesto's fried chicken, Aunt Lois' pound cake, and French's yellow mustard. Having purchased French's yellow mustard "souvenirs" from locales around the world, Randy was affectionately called "Mr. Mustard" and "King Mustard." Randy learned to play tennis late in life. He served as captain for numerous successful league tennis teams which qualified for statewide and regional tournaments. Some of his best times were spent with his tennis friends at Top Spin and with his championship combo-doubles teams. Randy loved his large, extended family and looked forward to the family's annual July 4th and Thanksgiving get-togethers. He had fond memories of "Saturday night hamburgers" and summers spent swimming in the creek at his grandparents' home in the country. In addition to his loving relationship with his own family, Randy was cherished by his wife's sisters, nieces and nephews, and cousins. Randy will forever be remembered for his dry sense of humor, generosity, humble and gentle spirit, and kind, warm heart. He will be deeply missed. Randy is survived by his beloved wife, Gayle Watts; daughters Kimberly Watts and Tammy Kingsbury (David; grandchildren Noah Wright and Gabrielle Wright; sister Carol Dee Watts (Mike Larrivee); many loving cousins; and his loyal companion, Winston. In addition to his parents, Ed and Minnie Watts, Randy was predeceased by his brother, Jerry. Randy's family thanks Lexington Medical Center, Sedgewood Manor, and Three Oaks Hospice for their care and kindness during the last several days of Randy's life. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 1 at 5 p.m. at 5308 Old Leesburg Road, Hopkins, SC 29061. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.