Obituary of James Coats

James Jay Coats was born May 10, 1973 in Tucson, AZ to Willard and Jacqueline Coats. He entered into rest unexpectedly on March 24, 2009 in Chico, CA. James grew up in Chico and graduated from P.V. High School in 1991. After High School, he lived in Oregon and Washington before returning to Chico in 2001. James enjoyed his job as the store manager of Mountain Mike's Pizza (Mangrove Ave), where he worked with many of his closest friends. He loved playing video games with his cousin, taking his Dad to the movies and shooting pool with friends in downtown Chico. He never found a roller coaster he wouldn't ride or a new food he wouldn't try (at least once). Family and friends often found him singing or laughing when he thought nobody was around. James will always be remembered for his animated smile and unmistakable laugh. He lived every day to the fullest. James is survived by his parents, Bill and Jackie; sister, Crystal Coats; grandparents, Walter and Dorothy Jason; aunt, Susan (Tony) Castillo; uncle, Alan (Patty) Jason of Cameron Park, CA; cousins, Diana Castillo, Mario Castillo, Melonie Jason, Stacy Powers, Jennifer Jason and second cousin, Andres Godinez-Castillo. Preceded in death by grandparents, Tom and Dorothy Burkhart; and great-grandparents, Herbert and Gladys Marshall. A celebration of his life will be held Sunday, April 5, 2009 from 2-7 p.m. at the Manzanita Place Picnic Pavilion.