MSG Batts was born in Washington, D.C. and was the son of the late William Henry and Nannie Hines Batts. He was a member of Pinehurst Baptist Church and obtained an Associate degree at Troy State University. He was a proud U. S. Army Ranger who retired following 22 years of dedicated service to his country. He was also retired from Civil Services, Ft. Benning, GA after 20+ years with the Range Control Operations. He was a member of the WWII Rangers Association, Triple Nickels Association, Airborne Association, American Legion Post #267, DAV Chapter #56, and the National Infantry Association. MSG Batts was inducted into the U. S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame in 1995 and was a member of the Distinguished Rangers Jr. Training Brigade.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, William E. Batts, and three sisters, Garney Batts Jackson, Shirley Batts and Henrietta Batts Greene. Survivors include: his wife of 52 years, Mrs. Gracie Guest Batts; two daughters, LTC Rena M. Batts-Elmore (LTC Ret. Hugh) and Audrey Batts Watson (Tim); two beloved granddaughters, Aubrey Grace and Bella Marie Watson; two sisters, Delores Batts Butler and Margaret Batts Todd; a brother-in-law, Isaac Guest; a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends.