Denise Watts

Denise Watts, 58, of Middletown, peacefully passed away on January 27, 2022, surrounded by her loving family. She was born October 23, 1963, in Middletown, to parents Fred and Edith (Downs) Manns. Denise attended Miami University in Oxford, and worked very hard to graduate with a master’s degree. She loved working at Middletown High School where she was an art teacher. She received multiple awards for her excellent work ethic and passion. Some of her awards include, The Science Foundation Teacher Liaison, Time-Warner Teacher of the Year, Fulbright Award, and many others.

She was proud of her success at work, but family was also a huge part of her life. Denise loved traveling and had stories to tell you about her time in England, Italy, Germany, France, Belize, Peru, Switzerland, and India to name some. Her ideal travel spot was on the beach in Naples, Florida, enjoying the sunshine and the sound of waves. When she was home, she truly enjoyed more than anything spending time and taking care of her family, which includes beloved dog, Roxy.

She leaves behind a large family who will deeply miss her, including her husband, Anthony Szabo; mother, Edith Manns; daughter, Rena Parsley; stepdaughters, Ali, Abby, and Aubrey Szabo; sisters, Pamela Polly, Lisa Crockett, and Regina Acosta; and many other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Fred Manns; and her grandparents.

A gathering of friends and family will be held on Wednesday, February 2, 2022, from 5PM-7PM, at Wilson-Schramm-Spaulding Funeral Home, 3805 Roosevelt Blvd (at Bonita Dr.), Middletown.