Published Tuesday, January 27, 2015

James Ray Coats, 63, of Columbia died Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, at his home in Houston, Texas.

Memorial and services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28, at Bethel Baptist Church with the Rev. Bonnie officiating.

Mr. Coats was born Jan. 31, 1951, in Columbia to Mae Emalyne and Marion Aubrey Coats.

He married Luz Caval on Oct. 14, 1989, in Buena Park, Calif., and she survives.

He attended Mizzou but was drafted for the Vietnam War. After returning from tour, Jim worked as a cattle herdsman until continuing his education at Linn Tech. He later worked for Shell Oil Co. until he became a private contractor. During his career and life, Jim gained many friendships and loyalties with his love of stories and hearty laughter.

Survivors also include one son, Johannes Lonaker; two daughters, Kimberly Coats (a Texas A&M graduate) and Atalie Coats, of Houston; two brothers, Jerry Coats and John Coats; and one sister, Bonnie Martin, all of Columbia.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Marie Thompson.

Memorials are suggested to Bethel Baptist Church, 201 E. Old Plank Road, Columbia, Mo., 65203.