Obituary: Hubert Richard Waters Jr.

Hubert Richard Waters Jr., 87, peacefully passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, while in the care of Kitty Askins Hospice Center. Hubert was born in Lenoir County on September 8, 1939, to the late Hubert Richard Waters Sr. and Betty D. Nelson Waters. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Annette Waters; grandson, Dane Crumbacker; great-great-grandchild, Legend Walker; and sister, Mary Ann Welborn King.

Hubert proudly and faithfully served his country in the United States Navy. Following his military service, he returned home to Kinston, where he became co-owner and operator of Woody's Auto Parts. After many years in the automotive parts industry, Hubert began a new chapter in his career with KNC, where he was among the company's first ten employees. He dedicated fifteen years of service to KNC before retiring.

Family was at the heart of Hubert's life, and some of his most treasured memories were made along the river at Paradise Shores. For more than fifty years, the family's river home served as a special gathering place, where countless hours were spent enjoying one another's company, sharing stories, and making memories that will be cherished for generations.

A devoted Duke basketball fan, Hubert's loyalty to the Blue Devils never wavered. He also enjoyed watching wrestling and classic Westerns, finding pleasure in the familiar characters and stories that entertained him through the years.

A member of First Original Free Will Baptist Church in Kinston, Hubert dedicated much time to the ministries of the church, serving as trustee, greeter, and in other capacities. Even in later years as his health declined, he continued going to church as often as possible, serving as the welcoming greeter to those who entered the doors.

A service of love and remembrance will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Rouse Funeral Home, with Pastor Terry Coates officiating. The family will receive friends during the hour prior to the service. Committal with military honors and full Masonic rites will follow at Westview Cemetery in Kinston.

Hubert is survived by his daughter, Kim Crumbacker; son, Bert Waters and wife, Joy; grandchildren, Summer Rasberry and husband, Devonte, Richard "Pook" Crumbacker and wife, Hannah, Jesse Shackelford and wife, Crystal, Lauren Shackelford, and Berton Waters; great-grandchildren, Jalen, Amare, Julian, Aaden, Jackson, Johnathan, Emily, Christella, Callie, EJ, Sevyn, and Reign; and special friend, Tom Brandner.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of 3HC Home Hospice and Kitty Askins Hospice Center for the compassion and care shown to Hubert. They are especially grateful to his nurse, Gwynn Maravelas, and aide, Lois Spencer, whose dedicated care provided comfort and support during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Original Free Will Baptist Church Building Fund, 3297 Falling Creek Rd, Kinston, NC 28504.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.