Roena "Rene" Ann Watts

Roena “Rene” Ann Watts (Bale), age 76, of Westfield Center passed away Monday, June 6th in Akron after a four month battle with cancer. Rene was born on May 6, 1946 to Clifford Bale Jr. and Thelma Bale. She was raised in Norton, OH and was a graduate of Norton High School in 1964. After graduating, she went on to attend Miami of Ohio in Oxford, OH where she was a member of the Alpha Phi sorority. Rene received her Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education in 1968. Upon graduating from Miami, she began a lifelong career in education, teaching first at Ashland High School in Ashland, OH (1968-1969), followed by Midpark High School in Middleburg Heights, OH (1969-1999). She obtained a Master’s in Education degree from Cleveland State in 1979. Upon retiring from teaching, she continued to pursue her love of being in the classroom as a substitute teacher for the Cloverleaf School District (2001-2022).

Outside of her teaching career, Rene found the most joy in life by spending time with her family. In 1978, she married the love of her life, Thomas Watts. She spent years as a devoted “coaches wife” and developed a deep love for the game of football. She and Tom share two sons, Thomas Bale Watts and Michael Clifford Watts who she loved deeply. Over the years she could be found on football fields all over cheering on her husband and sons. Rene also shared many great times and laughter with her step-daughter, Margi. After retirement, summer weekends were spent boating on Lake Erie at Venetian Marina in Sandusky, OH with friends.

Perhaps the greatest joy in Rene’s life were her eight grandchildren. The trips to Delaware, OH and Westfield, IN were constant to celebrate birthdays, watch sporting events and make precious memories. Summer beach vacations with the entire family were her happy place.

Rene is survived by her husband, Thomas L. Watts of Westfield Center, OH. Sons Thomas B. Watts (Jessica) of Delaware, OH and Michael Watts (Erin) of Westfield, IN. Step-daughter Margi Watts of Berea, OH. Her sister, Debra Stone (Robert) of Carmel, IN and eight beautiful grandchildren - Taylor, Emma, Lucas, Jacob, Ryland, Owen, Olivia and Annie.

She is preceded in death by her parents Clifford and Thelma Bale.

A private burial will be held with family at Lakewood Cemetery in Akron, OH. The family will welcome friends for a celebration of life on July 9th.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Rene's name to the Cloverleaf High School Athletic Fund.

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