James "Jim" David Stotts, 73, of Ripley, WV, passed away Thursday, December 19, 2024 at Charleston Area Medical Center, General Division following a brief illness.
He was born September 25, 1951, in Clarksburg, WV, a son of the late Charles Leo and Ila Eleanor (Meadows) Stotts.
Jim, graduated from Spencer High School, received his Bachelor's degree in Education from Glenville State College. He went on to earn his Master's degree in Education from Marshall University. Jim was a dedicated special education teacher who made a lasting impact on his students. After his teaching career he ventured into the insurance industry and retired from State Farm with 30 years of service.
Known for his quick wit, Jim had a way of making everyone smile. Jim will always be remembered for his love of fishing, hunting and the ability to make everyone smile. He was a W.V. BassMaster Champion and was called Mr. Musky by the W.V. Husky Musky Club in 2009. He was proud of his unique, handmade custom lures. If he had an opportunity to fish, he took it. He enjoyed the outdoors and spending time on his farm, loving his dog, Lila.
Survivors include his sons, James Bradford Stotts of New Martinsville, WV and Brock David Stotts of Ripley, WV; grandchildren, Kista and Beckett Stotts; brothers, Charles (Terry) Stotts of Shade, OH and Anthony (Michelle) Stotts of Spencer, WV.
Visitation will be from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Monday, December 23, 2024 at Taylor-Vandale Funeral Home, Spencer, WV. Private burial will be in Clover Cemetery.
Arrangements provided by Casto and Taylor-Vandale Funeral Homes of Evans, and Spencer. Condolences may be shared with the family be visiting taylorvandalefuneralhome.com