Richard H. Watt
Richard H. Watt
Richard H. “Dick” Watt passed away Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025 at home after a lengthy illness. He was predeceased by his wife of more than 60 years, Aletta “Lettie” Nel Watt. He was the devoted son of Frederick and Katherine Watt of Hawthorne, New York. He was also predeceased by his younger sister, Bette Anne “Bets” (Mike) Tuttle and his best friend since the 8th grade, Charles “Chuck” Erbsmehl. He leaves behind his daughters, Teresa (James) Lowe and Laura Leilani Watt, his granddaughter, Alison (Michael) Cone. His grandsons, David (Steve), Joe (Dana) and Jeremiah (Sarah) Lowe. As well as his great grandchildren, Portia (husband Cole & son Hank), Gavin, Wyatt, Everett, Lukas, Joshua, Ethan, Aria, Jaren, Natalie and Emily. Dick was born in New Rochelle, New York on Aug. 29, 1933. After high school, he joined the Air Force and was stationed in London, England, during the Korean War. In London, he met and married Lettie, who was traveling the world from South Africa. This is where their daughter Teresa was born.
After earning his degree at Michigan State University in Hotel & Restaurant Management, they moved to Maui, Hawaii, where they lived for many years. Dick managed the Sheraton Black Rock Hotel in Kaanapali. This is where their daughter, Laura Leilani, was born. Eventually the family moved to Ohio, where Dick was employed by Standard Oil, managing their hotels and restaurants. In 1977, Dick decided to become his own boss and an entrepreneur, and moved to Chautauqua County, NY.
Dick had several restaurants, The Grainery, The White Inn (a partner) and (most known for) The White Horse Inn.
At the White Horse, Dick & Lettie welcomed the community as friends for almost 25 years before retiring, remaining in Cassadaga, NY. Dick was known far & wide for his delicious dinners and desserts (peanut butter pie, peaches & cream pie).
Dick was also a handy man with the ability to fix most anything. He built his granddaughter, Alison, a beautiful grandmother clock shortly after she was born. He also loved gardening which was evident in the daffodils, tulips and flowers always in front of The White Horse. Dick never met a cat that he didn’t like. When he sat down, his lap became a cat magnet and soon it would be occupied by at least one purring cat. The rule in Dick’s home was that if you had a cat on your lap it was not to be disturbed.
Dick loved to be with family and friends. Dick included his friends and his White Horse “gang” as his family. He had a big heart and reached out to many when they needed help.
Dick was well known for his sharp wit and easy laugh. He loved to have fun, look at the starry night sky, sunrises, sunsets, homemade cookies (especially those made by daughter Teresa & granddaughter Alison) and ice cream. He was always game for an “adventure”.
He volunteered his time and was Treasurer for the Cassadaga Baptist Church, the Fredonia Presbyterian Church and the Cassadaga American Legion for many years.
Much gratitude goes to his around-the-clock caregivers Teresa, Debbie, Rondee, Terry, Jessica, Dixie & Sylvia. They made it possible for his family to honor his wishes to stay in his home. We are eternally grateful for the compassion, kindness and generosity of these beautiful ladies. His favorite charities were Wounded Warriors, Alzheimer’s Association, and Lakeshore Humane Society. In lieu of flowers, donations could be sent in his honor.
Dick Watt will be sorely missed by many. A Celebration of Life will be at the Cassadaga American Legion Post #1280, 228 Maple Ave., Cassadaga, NY 14718 on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. Memorial service at 12 PM, food, drinks, general merriment and remembrances of Dick after the service, approximately 1 PM.
Arrangements entrusted to Jordan Funeral Home. To send a condolence please visit www.jordansinclairville.com.