James "Bo"

Coe

James “Bo” Coe lived a life defined by hard work, unwavering dedication, and a deep love for his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Bo leaves behind a legacy that will continue through the generations who loved him.

Born on August 20, 1941, into a large blended family, Bo learned early the value of hard work and responsibility. He began mowing yards at the age of ten with a push mower, and that strong work ethic remained with him throughout his life. His career included working at service stations, Long Star Ammunition, serving in the United States Army, and ultimately spending 40 years with the Electric Cooperative of Arkansas, faithfully serving his community.

Bo belonged to a generation of men who often expressed their love through actions rather than words. He showed his love by providing, working hard, keeping his promises, and making sure his family had what they needed. He was never one to take much time for himself. His idea of a vacation might be taking a week off to paint the house, while making sure his wife and children enjoyed their own vacations. Bo was happiest knowing his family was taken care of.

His greatest pride and joy was his family, beginning with his beloved wife, Deloris Coe. Their love story began at Lee's Drive Inn, where a sweet, young Christian girl from the Texas side caught the attention of a young man from Genoa. Although she initially wondered if those Genoa boys might be a little too wild for her liking, Bo's determination and persistence eventually won her heart. Together, they built a life grounded in love, faith, hard work, and family.

Bo was immensely proud of his daughter, Michelle Lawrence (Jason), of Hot Springs, Arkansas, and his son, Matthew Coe (Robin), of Mound City, Arkansas. He never missed an opportunity to share their accomplishments and took great joy in the lives they built. He was quick to give credit to God and Deloris for the blessings of their family.

His four grandchildren held a particularly special place in his heart: Jackson Broyles, Rachel Coe, James Mason Coe, and Wesley Coe. Each brought a unique joy and purpose to his life. From the special bond he shared with his first grandson, Jackson, to Rachel, who received her much-wanted pink car at the age of 3 and later Delo’s sporty red Lincoln, Bo found countless ways to show his love. His namesake, Mason, shares his curiosity and interest in how things work, while sweet Wesley brought out a tenderness in Bo that was especially precious in his later years.

Bo was preceded in death by his mother and father, Fletcher and Etta Purifoy Coe, brothers Dan Coe and Harold Elliot, sisters Marietta Qualls, Mattie Baker, Judy Gillenwater, and his beloved niece Celia Velasquez. In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, Bo is also survived by his sisters Lela Harrison and Nina Swilley, as well as his special nieces and nephews, Carmen Satterfield, Anita Carol Giles, and Joe Gillenwater, along with his many other nieces and nephews that held a special place in Bo’s heart. Bo is also survived by his beloved four-legged companions, Gabby and Sam.

Bo's love for his family was evident in the stories he told, the pride he carried, and the sacrifices he made throughout his life. His greatest inheritance was not material wealth, but the values he passed down: faith, perseverance, responsibility, commitment, and the importance of family.

Proverbs 13:22 reminds us, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children.” Bo leaves just such an inheritance. His example and the memories he created will continue to live through his children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives he touched.

Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy remains in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the generations who will carry his name and values forward.

Celebration of Life will be on Monday, November 16, 2026, at Texarkana Funeral Home, Arkansas, at 11:00 AM in the Chapel, with Rev. Doug Rhodes officiating. Burial will be held at Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be held one hour prior in the Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Bo's honor to:

• Christ Church of Texarkana
• American Kidney Fund
• Texarkana Animal Shelter

The family is grateful for the prayers, love, and support shown during this time. They find comfort in knowing that Bo's life was one well lived, his work was done with purpose, and his greatest legacy will live on in the hearts of those he loved.

Rest well, Bo. Your work here is done, but your legacy lives on. We’ll take it from here.