James A. Shotts, Jr., "Shotgun", of Willow Springs, Missouri, passed away suddenly on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the age of 68. James was born May 29, 1958, in Killeen, Texas, to James Sr. and Patricia (Samuelson) Shotts.

James was the oldest of eight children, and he grew up in the Tri-State area (IA, MO, and IL). During his life, he worked various jobs, which included carnival work, welding, sawmills, and various other jobs.

James married Faith Carlton in August of 1983 in Rand Park, Keokuk. They were blessed with four children, James III, Calvin, Miranda, and Andrea. Upon their marriage, Faith's son, Kenny Carlton, became his son. James also had two more daughters, Josephine and Patricia Bell.

He lived his whole life between Northeast Missouri and Southern Missouri. He loved his motorcycle and raising Chow dogs. His most important role in life was being the best father to his kids and Tickle PawPaw to his grandkids. James had the good fortune of having many more young people to call him "DAD"!

James is survived by his children, James (Christine) Shotts, Calvin (Jenny) Shotts, Andrea Kestner, Josephine (Lance) Andrews, Patricia Bell Shotts, Moria (Brian) Martin, Samuel Brown, Darrel Brown; and a multitude of grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Seth Shotts, Lora (John) Carlson, Lucinda (Sheldon) Conover, Ronald (Jody) Shotts, and Donald (Angie) Shotts; sisters-in-law, Rita Shotts and Kathy Carlton; along with many nieces, nephews, and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Faith; daughter, Miranda; son, Kenny; his parents; his grandparents; two brothers, Harry Shotts and Lee Shotts; and many aunts and uncles.

James has been cremated, and there will not be a funeral service at this time. Two Celebration of Life services will be held at a later date for James, one in Southern Missouri and one in Northern Missouri. Cremation arrangements were under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Willow Springs, Missouri. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.