Jim Coots

James (Jim) Elbert Coots, 91, of Van Buren, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord on September 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on August 21, 1934, at St. Edward’s Hospital in Fort Smith, Arkansas to E.W. and Orma Coots. He lived a life of faith, family, and hard work. On September 14, 1962, he married the love of his life, Helen (Hunt) Coots and together they built a home filled with devotion and care. In 1965, they welcomed their daughter, Shawn, into their lives and into the world. Jim worked as a machine operator at Meade Container for 32 years, where he was known for his dedication and reliability. Beyond his career, he lived to serve his family and church. Jim loved God with all his heart and lived to serve. A man of steadfast faith, Jim was a former deacon and member of Evangel Temple Assembly of God, where he nourished his relationship with God and built lifelong friendships. He loved football and especially treasured watching games with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family was his greatest joy, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, creating memories filled with love, laughter, and warmth. He was preceded in death by his parents, E.W. and Orma Coots and his brother Bill Coots. Jim is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 63 years, Helen Coots; his sisters Rosie Riddle and Ethel Sharpe; his brother David Coots; his daughter Shawn Damron and her husband James; grandchildren Parker Damron and his wife Ashley, and Beck Damron; and his great-grandchildren Oaklynn and Aspen Damron. He will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, whose love of God and family left a lasting legacy. A funeral service to honor Jim’s life will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025 at 11:00 am at Evangel Temple, 1110 S 12th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901. Visitation will begin an hour prior at 10:00 am. Jim will be laid to rest at Forest Park Cemetery in a private service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Evangel Temple, 1110 S 12th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901. https://evangeltemplelife.churchcenter.com/giving