James Rudolph Kotz, age 68, of Beaumont, Texas passed away on Thursday, July 15, 2021 at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital. James was born November 13, 1952 in Beaumont to Lilla (Leger) Kotz and Jay Rudolph Kotz.
James spent the majority of his life in China, Texas, and was a graduate of Hardin Jefferson High School. He was a truck driver and retired from CMC Rebar. James was a social man with lots of friends, and he loved to pick on people. He enjoyed cooking outdoors, especially barbecuing, boiling crawfish, and frying fish. James also loved to spend time in his garden, and was always giving away his vegetables to his neighbors in China. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren and his dog Fancy.
James is survived by son Larry Kotz and wife Theresa of Mont Belvieu, Texas; daughter Kim Kotz and fiancé Justin Jones of China, Texas; and daughter Jessica Stanley and wife Carnie of Sour Lake, Texas; brother Michael Kotz and wife Lisa of Jasper; sister Thelma West of Colmesneil; and grandchildren Hailey, Brayden, Jacob, and Noah.
James was preceded in death by father Jay Rudolph Kotz and mother Lilla (Leger) Kotz; brother Jerry Kotz and sister Alma Manuel.
A Gathering of Family and Friends for James will be held Monday, July 19, 2021 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 4955 Pine Street, Beaumont, Texas 77703. A Celebration of James' life will occur Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at 10:00 AM, with his burial to follow at China Cemetery, 461 Benoit, Beaumont, TX 77713, officiated by Father Tran of Our Lady of Sorrows Church.
Serving as pallbearers are Jay West, Gabriel West, Jefferey West, Lynn West, Mark Manuel, Christopher Schade, Jacob Browder and Josh West.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.forestlawnmpfh.com for the Kotz family.
