Christsopher Lee Watts, a former Dallas resident who was a well-known business owner here, died Dec. 29, 2025, following a short illness. He passed away in San Francisco, surrounded by family and close friends.
Chris was born June 20, 1971, in Midwest City, Okla., to Denny and Linda (Worley) Watts. He grew up in Midwest City and Nicoma Park, Okla., and then moved to Portland, Ore., and then to Meeker, Ola., where he attended Meeker High School and graduated in 1989.
Chris moved to Dallas and worked in the banking industry for a few years until he had the opportunity to engage in his passions for caring for animals. He became the managing partner in one of the largest pet grooming and boarding facilities, naming it The Petropolitan.
He was also a co-owner of a bar in the city.
Chris was very involved in the gay community and city politics in Dallas was a dedicated advocate for both. He served on several boards for the causes and people he cared deeply for.
Chris moved to San Francisco and worked for a number of years as a barista and then as manager for several of the areas coffee emporiums such as Starbucks and Philz Coffee. He had many friends in the area that he considered his family.
Chris was preceded in death by his sister Marnie and niece Emily.
He is survived by his parents, Denny Watts of Eugene, Ore., and Linda Worley of Longview, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was especially close to his cousin Kim McCutcheon of Newalla, Okla.
Chris was small in stature, but he had a big heart. He treasured his friends and family and had a sense of humor that always kept those around him laughing. He had a family that loved, supported and accepted him, and he will be missed by all who knew him.