James Orville Lott

Funeral services will be held at Rhoton Funeral Home in Carrollton, Texas on Tuesday, April, 28, 2020 at 2:00 PM, and will be streamed on Facebook Live for those of you who cannot attend. At this time only the immediate family will be present, all other people wishing to pay their respects can join the service utilizing Facebook Live.

James was born in Dallas, Texas to Olen and Sylvia Lott on February 28, 1952. He grew up in Farmers Branch, Texas where he graduated from R.L. Turner High School in 1970. After graduation, he enlisted in the Army National Guard where he served for six years. In May of 1975, he met Kathy Kleiner through mutual friends. They immediately clicked and began dating shortly thereafter. They were engaged in August of 1975 and married in December of that same year. It was a quick romance that lasted for nearly 45 years. They were best friends who loved each other very much. James made Kathy laugh like no one else could – this is one of the many qualities about him that made Kathy fall in love with him. This very quality of James’ personality is what helped them get through many difficult times throughout the years. James’ final career was with Carrollton-Farmers Branch School District, where he was a school bus driver for 15 years. While there, he made many close friends who cherished and respected him because of his kindness, humor, and work ethic. In June of 2016, James retired from the school district, and him and Kathy planned to travel around the country in their RV. He loved to travel and experience new things and new places.

James enjoyed hunting and was an avid firearm enthusiast. He taught his kids to respect and properly handle firearms. James was very close to his Uncle Edward, who encouraged him to pursue his interest in playing guitar. He played for a local garage band in Farmers Branch, which consisted of some of his closest friends. Throughout his life, he continued playing guitar, and he continued to add to his guitar collection. James was passionate about music and connected with music at an early age. Jimi Hendrix was his all-time favorite. James was also a street racer in the 70s. He had a 1970s TA Challenger that was his pride and joy.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Olen and Sylvia, and by numerous other family members.

James is survived by his wife Kathy of nearly 45 years, twins Shannon and Wesley, his daughter Whitney, his sister Linda, and his miniature schnauzer Greta Mae.

James was quiet and an introvert, but he had a wicked sense of humor. He never wanted anyone to take anything too seriously and he wanted everyone to just have a good time. He was sensitive and caring and would do anything for the people he loved. He was a great friend to many and he took care of his family. In March, James was elated by the news that his youngest daughter was pregnant. He was so excited to become a grandfather for the first time. James was an honest, good man who will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, James’ family kindly asks that you please make a donation to the American Heart Association, or gift a potted plant for his deck, as he loved to plant things and enjoyed the outdoors.