James Montgomery Cossey

James Montgomery (J.M.) Cossey, of Walcott, Arkansas, went to be with His Lord on Monday, January 22, 2018 at his home in Walcott at the age of 81. He was born January 13, 1937, the son of Mont and Bessie Cossey in Lake City, Arkansas.

 J.M. was greeted in heaven by his grandson Kevin Reeves.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Belma, of the home; his 4 daughters and sons in law, Jan and Randy Allred, Michi and Phillip McClelland, Melinda and Kim Reeves, Kristie and Rodney Head; 1 son and daughter in law, Monty and Brigitte Cossey; 16 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; and one expected in August. J.M. is also survived by a very special nephew, Bobby Burrow of Lenore City, Tennessee.

J.M. loved the Lord and was saved at the age 13. He was a long-time member of the Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. J. M. had a special place in his heart for The Pleasant Valley Baptist Church and his closest friend and Pastor, Wilburn Griggs. It was his desire to see others and especially his family members come to know the Lord. Through the years, he has enjoyed a special fellowship with many Pastor friends and church members. 

J.M. and Belma owned and operated Poplar Creek Dairy Farm for over 50 years. He was also a mechanic, carpenter, bull dozer operator, custom hay farmer and beef cattle rancher. Many of his years were spent mentoring and influencing his numerous nieces and nephews, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. He held all his family members close to his heart. J.M.’s happiest moments were when he was surrounded by family while working on the farm.  He also was known for his dry sense of humor, said what he meant and meant what he said. He had a presence about him that made others feel special.  J.M. will be remembered by most as a hard-working, strong willed and determined man of few words.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are his grandsons: Jimmy Allred, Adam McClelland, Nick McClelland, Mike McClelland, Kyle Reeves, Andy Head, Colton Cossey, and Bobby Burrow. Honorary pallbearers include his 4 sons in law.

Services are being conducted by Phillips Funeral Home and the family will receive visitors on Thursday, January 25, 2018, at 12 p.m. until service time at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. The funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church with Wilburn Griggs, Boyce Cate, and Nathan Gramling officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Zion.

Lasting memorials may be made to Pleasant Valley Baptist Church.

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