James R. "Papaw" Moats, 82, of Madison, passed from this earth to his eternal home with Jesus on, Wednesday, October 4, 2017 at 7:04 am, after a short illness.
He was born January 10, 1935 in Bloomingburg, Ohio. He was a full time employee of Boone County 911 Addressing. He was retired from the coal industry and was a retired member of the Madison Volunteer Fire Department. He honored his country with service in the United States Army. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed riding his side by side. He enjoyed spending time with his family and sharing stories of times past.
He will always be remembered for his contagious smile, his big heart and his great sense of humor. He was well respected and loved by everyone who knew him. He was a mentor and Papaw to many. He was a strong and independent man.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert G. and Maggie Belle Moats.
He is survived by his sons and daughters in law, Jim and Cheryl Moats of Hurricane, Doug and Anita Moats of Hillsborough, NC, his daughter and son in law, Joy and Tim Goodson of Griffithsville, his brothers Bobby and Jack Moats of Ohio. Grandchildren, Katie Kirk, Timmy Moats, Josh and Tyler Goodson. Great grandchildren, Aliyah Kirk, Blake and Walker Goodson. He is also survived by his loving companion Doris Deck of Danville. Numerous friends and colleagues are also left to cherish his memory.
A special thank you to Deb, Kelly, Crystal and Granville of the Teays Valley Center nursing staff for going above and beyond with their care for him.
The world has lost a truly great man - one who has left an imprint on many lives and hearts, that won't ever be forgotten.
Funeral service will be held Saturday, October 7, 2017 at 2 p.m. at Handley Funeral Home in Danville with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at the Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery Tuesday, October 10, 2017 at 11 a.m. in Dunbar, WV.