James Terry Cottle

James Terry Cottle passed away March 7, 2025. He was born at the LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City on September 20, 1952, the fifth child, and third son of Bonna Mae and Laurence Bunderson Cottle. According to Mom, Jim was bashful, and it took a while for him to start talking, but he would ‘hum.’ Mom wrote “There is music in a September baby,” and there was ‘music’ in Jim.

He started playing the ukulele at an early age to accompany his siblings when they were asked to perform at family and other events. As a teenager, he learned to play the guitar and together with a few friends, formed a band. Jim loved to sing, listen to music, and wrote his own songs.

Dad was a dairy farmer, so growing up included moving multiple times and completing chores. Jim did not particularly like helping on the farm, but he learned how to work. He graduated from Viewmont High School in 1971 and joined the Navy, serving in Vietnam aboard the USS Constellation and USS Coral Sea. He later served on the USS Kitty Hawk before being honorably discharged in 1979.

Jim was goodhearted, friendly, and kind to others. He married several times and worked many places doing various jobs. Jim traveled around the United States and when he was ready to settle down, he found a house and retired in Buhl, Idaho. He loved cooking and gardening. He collected rocks and dreamed of opening a rock shop. He was kind to animals and fostered cats for Magicats Inc. to get them ready for adoption.

Jim died unexpectedly in his home on March 7, 2025, with his companion of almost eight years by his side. She states: “Jim was a good man; he was my angel who saved me from a nightmare and restored my sense of peace.”

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; a wife, Tamera; son, Steven; and a granddaughter, Chloe.

He is survived by his sons, Jamie, David, Jason, Justin, and Chris; daughter, Michelle; four brothers; six sisters; several grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was dearly loved by his family and friends. He will be mourned and missed. Jim will be interred in the Trenton Cemetery in Utah.

Heartfelt thanks to Farmer Funeral Chapel in Buhl, Idaho, for their help and support and to The American Legion Post 47 for providing Military Honors.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Jim’s memorial webpage at www.farmerfuneralchapel.com.