WILMINGTON — Doretha “Retha” (Watts) Cribb, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina, at the age of 88.
Born on October 9, 1937, in Horry County, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Coley Blease Watts and Estie Mae (Strickland) Watts.
Retha was a devoted wife to William “Moody” Cribb, with whom she shared 42 years of marriage until his passing. Together, they built a life centered around family, faith, and love.
After living in Chicago, Illinois, for 17 years, Retha settled in Wilmington, North Carolina, where she made a home and lasting memories with her family. She spent more than 40 years working as a skilled beautician, a career she truly loved. In Wilmington, she operated a beauty shop attached to her home, where she served many clients over the years and brought joy to those who sat in her chair.
A faithful member of Winter Park Baptist Church in Wilmington, Retha cherished her church family and the friendships she made there. Outside of work and church, she enjoyed traveling with friends, shopping, flower gardening, and hosting family gatherings. She had a special gift for making others feel welcome and loved, often through the simple act of sharing a meal.
Retha was a remarkably intelligent woman whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. Her spirit of generosity, hospitality, and love will continue to inspire her family and friends for generations to come.
Preceding her in death are her husband, William “Moody” Cribb; her parents, Coley Blease Watts and Estie Mae (Strickland) Watts; her brothers, John Watts, Coley “CB” Watts, Ronnie Watts, and Roger Watts; and her sister, Jenny (Watts) Daniels.
Retha is survived by her devoted daughters, Wanda Sarvis (Rickie) and Linda Cribb; her brother, David Earl Watts; and her sister, Ann Williamson, affectionately known as “Tooter.” Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Billy Sarvis (Karyn), Lisa Sarvis (Mikey), Brian Sarvis, Laura Pierce, and Corey Robinson (Sarah); eight great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a dear friend, Mary Piggot.
Retha’s memory will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her.
