James Leroy Stotts was born on July 23, 1974, in Albany, Oregon, to Howard Leroy and Mary Katherine (Studdard) Stotts.  He passed away at his home in Neosho, Missouri, at the age of 51.

James was a member of the 1993 graduating class at Seneca High School in Seneca, Missouri.  After high school, he worked as an owner/operator truck driver for several years.   He attended both Canopy Church of Neosho, Missouri and Buffalo Creek Baptist Church of Tiff City, Missouri.  He was a hard worker who freely gave of his time.

Although he looked the part of a hard biker, and he enjoyed riding his Harley, especially to Sturgis, he had a tender, loving, compassionate heart.  He was a member of BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse) organization and participated in several Poker Runs to raise money for children in need.

Many people would call James their friend.  He was well-known and well-liked in the community and had never met a stranger.  If he knew of someone was in need, he didn't hesitate, he'd just pull over to help those broken down on the side of the road and countless times he bought food for the needy.  He loved helping people.

James loved his family.  He looked forward to gatherings with friends and family.  He was light-hearted and loved to laugh.  He was an outdoorsman and an avid fisherman.  He wasn't afraid to try new things and enjoyed life.  He was a wonderful cook and baker, famous for his pies.  He is leaving wonderful memories with those who were blessed enough to know him.

James is survived by his father, Howard Stotts of Neosho, Missouri; a niece, Haylee Stotts of Texas; nephews: Adam Stotts of Texas, Jakub Stotts of Missouri, Alex Stotts of Texas, and Nick Stotts of Texas; two great-nephews, Jaxon and Jadon; aunts, Linda Powell (Gary) of Oklahoma and Janie Yokum of Missouri; his best friend, David Foster of Missouri; many cousins and family members from Missouri, Texas, Oregon, and Washington; and numerous friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Stotts, and his two brothers, David and Heath Stotts, and his grandmother, Lucy Garrison.

A time of visitation will be held from 2:00 – 3:00pm, with a Celebration of Life beginning at 3:00pm on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Canopy Church in Neosho, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to assist the family with funeral costs or to Canopy Church c/o Clark Funeral Home P.O. Box 66 Neosho, MO 64850.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Clark Funeral Homes.