Max Gerald Cothran

In the evening hours of Thursday, August 29, 2019, Max Gerald Cothran peacefully passed away at the age of 86 and went to spend eternity with his Heavenly Father. Max was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He lived his life with integrity and a strong Christian faith.

Max was born to Emily J and Jessie Viola Cothran on August 16, 1933. Samuel Lee Johnson (Jessie’s dad) owned the home where he was born and raised in Buffalo, Texas (Leon County). He grew up with four brothers and one sister: Ervin “Blackie”, Monty, Gene, Don and Mary.

When he was young Max lived the life of a farm boy and worked alongside his brothers. Lessons were learned early on about hard work, Christian faith, and integrity. These lessons carried over into everything he did throughout his life.

When he was seventeen he met a beautiful young girl name Bonita Burnett. He fell head over heels in love and they soon married on September 30, 1950. Soon after, they became parents to three sons, Gerald Lee, Lynn Max, and Cody Wayne. They established early on a family unity bonded in God and family.

Max’s love and passion for life and family were exemplified in church, sports, business, and leisure. Leading came naturally for him; failing was never an option. He was successful in many things and a REAL competitor. He played volleyball, coached baseball, tournament bass fished, snow and water skied, played music, sang and loved playing his guitar. He not only enjoyed these things but excelled in them. He adored family and the time he spent with his sons, and their families, at “The Ranch” in Oakwood, TX. Max and Bonnie retired to The Ranch and spent their days napping, fishing, riding horses, and playing music.

In 1961, Max and his brother “Blackie” started a business in Beaumont, TX. In 1966, Max opened a branch in Houston, Texas. He was well known for his organizational skills and was a leader who genuinely cared for his employees. And he was rewarded by his employees with devotion and respect. His sons worked beside him until his retirement in 1986.

A memorial service in memory of Max will be held on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at 2 p.m. at Walters Funeral Home, 610 S Commerce St., Centerville, Texas 75833. Viewing 10:00 am – 11:00 am with a luncheon at Country Cousins 11:30 am – 1:30 pm.

Memorial donations in memory of Max may be made to Oakwood Church of Christ at 645 Main St., Oakwood, Texas 75855.