Visitation
Service
1 p.m.
Kimberlee “Kim” Watts, 71, of Morganton, NC, passed away Monday, January 19, 2026.
Born in California on August 15, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Joe Bowen and Zena Belle Bowen.
Kim was an active member of North Morganton United Methodist Church. She graduated from Salem High School and worked at Broughton Hospital for many years as an x-ray tech. After Broughton, she began the first sonography program in North Carolina at Caldwell Community College, from which she retired. Kim was an avid football fan and enjoyed all sports.
She was a wonderful friend to many and was known for her kindness and compassion. Her favorite thing in the world was being a Mimi.
Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Dr. Natalie Whitaker (Keith); grandchildren, Chase Whitaker, Ava Whitaker, Lance Watts, and Justin Watts; daughter-in-law, Amie Watts.
In addition to her parents, Kim was preceded in death by her son, Neil Watts.
The graveside service will be held at 12 p.m., Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. David Rorie officiating. A celebration of Kim’s life will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Kim’s home.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Kimberlee “Kim” Watts.
I will always remember Kim’s kindness shown to me while in the cardiovascular ultrasound program at CCC&TI. She knew her stuff for sure. Rest in the arms of Jesus Kim. Lisa Bryant
Dr. Whitaker, you and your family will be in my prayers. Im so sorry
To say Kim was amazing is an understatement. She poured her heart into every student in the sonography program at CCC&TI. I was lucky enough to be one of those students. Kim molded so many of the practicing sonographers in this state into who they are today. She was kind, patient and had the absolute best laugh/smile that would brighten your day. She left so many great memories with every student she had over the years . I am so sorry for your loss and will be praying for comfort.
At the graveside today I wanted to say something as everyone there had thoughts and desire to verbally express them. If they had we would have been there until dark. Kim Watts was the epitome of LOVE. Take all the adjectives to describe LOVE and you would have Kim as she served her Lord!
Natalie, I’m so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I was a student of hers and thought the world of her and your family. 💜🙏
Natalie and family I am so very sorry for your loss of your wonderful mother and grandmother. She was such a precious person as my sonography instructor and my friend. I haven’t seen her in years but have never forgotten her sweet soul and the impact she had on my life and career. Love and prayers to you and your family❤️🙏🏻
Natalie you know how much your mother loved. You. Was so supportive of your high school academic and Basketball years. You were blessed to have a wonderful mom. She supported your college career and what a great dental practice.
Dear Natalie, I am so very, very sorry for your terrible loss in the passing of your mother. Sending many prayers to you and your family@ Lynne Hallyburton