Otis Ronald James

After graduating from high school, Ron enlisted in the United States Army, and had an Honorable career of over 27 years. Retiring after serving as (E8) Master Sergeant, and also a Company First Sergeant, he mentored many NCO’s in his command, and was a Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Command. His expertise in Helicopter Repair was second to none. Working on the AH-64 attack helicopter, UH-60 (Blackhawk) Helicopter, and many other varieties, he taught young soldiers and provided a vast amount of knowledge through the years, including Vietnam and other conflicts. Following his many years of service, Ron looked at other jobs and finally settled on working with youth at a Juvenile Detention Facility the next several years, teaching many of today's youth how to deal with the challenges of life.

Ron and Connie LaFontain were married in 1968. Together they moved with Ron’s military assignments to various states throughout the United States, finally settling in Goodyear, Arizona. Their life together brought 3 children into the world, Mitchell, Danny, and Tarina. Along their adventure, they also dedicated their lives to providing a home to hundreds of foster children. During their time with the foster program, they expanded their family by adopting 3 young children with special challenges.

Ron’s last loving mission was to care for Connie until her passing in 2017 from brain cancer. He stayed by her side, until she was called to heaven. Ron also was stricken with cancer during this time, but fought it back and in 2020 he was cancer free, but it didn’t give up until he was taken away by it in April 2021, to join Connie in Heaven and be reunited once again.

Ron was surpassed in life, by his wife Connie, son Mitchell, and his sister Vera.

Ron is survived by his sister Carol, His Daughters: Tarina and Courtney, Sons: Danny, Cortez, and George. Ron and Connie had 14 grandchildren.