Funeral services for James Leslie "Jim" Cothren will be at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at Centenary United Methodist Church in Lawton, Oklahoma

Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens under the direction of Becker-Rabon Funeral Home.

The family will be at the funeral home to welcome friends on Monday, June 24th from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Jim, a beloved husband, dad, brother, Papa, and friend passed away on Friday, June 21, 2024 in Lawton, Oklahoma at the age of 76. He was born on April 25, 1948 in Lawton, Oklahoma to James and Ida (Richardson) Cothren.

Jim attended Lawton Public Schools and was a proud member of the Lawton High School graduating class of 1966.  On February 12, 1971, Jim married Nancy Mae Jardine at Centenary United Methodist Church.  Soon after, the happy couple moved to Oklahoma City where two daughters were born. He began working at the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company when it first opened in Lawton and remained a faithful employee for 32 years before retiring in 2011.

As a long time friend of Wayne's Drive Inn, Jim was honored to be the first customer of the West Side Wayne's 18 years ago.

Upon his retirement, Jim enjoyed spending time with the Lawton Model Railroad Association and volunteering at the Lawton/Fort Sill Veteran's Center.

Jim had the heart of a servant and especially enjoyed helping the United Methodist Men at Centenary United Methodist Church where he was a lifelong member. Jim was a silent leader, often doing work behind the scenes, but never wanting to be in the spotlight. This was not more evident than with his work with the Free Neighborhood Breakfast at Centenary. He tirelessly bought groceries and supplies, cooked pounds of sausage, prepared countless eggs, and shared a smile with all who came through the door.

Above all, Jim was a faithful family man who showed love and grace daily. He embodied Christ through his unwavering patience and steadfast nature. He was a man of few words but his example spoke volumes.

James is survived by his wife of 53 years, Nancy; children Missy and Chris Crimmins of Duncan and Leslie Cothren of Lawton; brother and sister-in-law Steve and Donna Cothren of Lawton; grandchildren Maddie and Cole Crimmins of Duncan; nephew Adam Cothren of Lawton; brother-in-law and wife John and April Jardine of Minnesota: and numerous extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and by two brothers-in-law, Bill and Tim Jardine.

The family would like to sincerely thank Choice Hospice for their kindness and compassion in providing Jim and his family peace and comfort in his final days.

Memorial contributions can be given to the Free Neighborhood Breakfast at Centenary United Methodist Church, 704 SW D Ave, Lawton, OK 73501.