PROCTOR — Robert Judson Watts, son of Jack and Judy Watts of Cornwall, Vt., was born on Oct. 24, 1971, in Pittsfield, Mass. to Joanne Armstrong and Robert Purry. Judson was loved by a large extended network of families consisting of the family he married into through his wife, Leah Campbell; his birth family including his sister, Kesia Purry; the family he was raised with including his sister, Alexis Watts Cosper; and his “big brother” Sol Levy.
Jud was a deeply sensitive man with a wicked sense of humor, an independent spirit, an impressive vocabulary, and an extraordinary ear for music. A drummer at heart, he appreciated many kinds of music, with a particular love for reggae and bagpipes. He enjoyed concerts, Scotland, fishing, airplanes, dogs, Star Wars, and good food. He was a NASCAR fan (called himself a dreadneck), but a careful, unhurried driver who liked chauffeuring his family. He had a mischievous streak and a talent for turning ordinary moments into jokes that could last for years. Jud had strong opinions but was open-minded. He accepted and valued people just as they were, touching many lives. He wasn’t particularly interested in being the center of attention and was always simply, unmistakably himself. He was a genuinely good human being, loved for exactly who he was.
And he always used correct punctuation.
On Oct. 24, 2026, there will be a 10 a.m. memorial service at the Cornwall Congregational Church, followed by a 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. remembrance gathering at Notte (Two Brothers Tavern) in Middlebury, Vt. All who knew Jud are welcome to attend one or both. ◊
