Ann E. James

Ann E. James, 66, of McArthur, passed away on June 3, 2026, at her home. She was born on August 5, 1959, in Allensville, Ohio, the daughter of the late James Harley and Eliza Evelyn (Morris) Woltz. Ann was a devoted bus driver for the Vinton County Local School District for many years and her life was marked by her steadfast dedication to her family, her community, and the many children whose daily journeys she safely guided.

Ann’s commitment to her role as a bus driver extended well beyond transportation; she was deeply devoted to her bus kids, ensuring their safety and well-being with a caregiver’s heart. Her passion for nurturing extended into her personal life, where she cherished her children and grandchildren above all else. A woman of many talents and interests, she found joy in simple pleasures: fishing, mowing grass, and especially bottle-feeding her lambs—a task she approached with remarkable skill and affection.

She is survived by her beloved sons, Jesse James and his wife Terri, and Jeremy James; her daughter, Carrie Roberson; and her stepson, Curtis Cottrill, and his wife Suzanne. Among her cherished grandchildren are Rylie Perry, Trinity Roberson, and Natalie Bandy, as well as great-grandchildren Makiya and Silas. She also leaves behind a step-granddaughter, Samantha Cottrill, who also held a special place in her heart. Ann’s family circle is further enriched by her brothers, Charlie Young and his wife Minnie, Jim Woltz, and Harley Thomas Woltz and his wife Billie; her sisters, Phyllis Michael and her husband David, Carolyn Cunningham and her husband Claude, and Judy Durkin; along with numerous nieces and nephews who remember her fondly.

In addition to her parents, Ann was preceded in death by her significant other, Clyde “Sonny” Cottrill; and her brother, Pete Smith.

A visitation in memory of Ann E. James will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at R.M. Williams Funeral Service, 120 W. Broadway St, Wellston. A funeral service celebrating Ann's life will follow on Monday, June 8, 2026, beginning at 11:00 AM at the Funeral Home with Pastor John Michles officiating. Burial will follow in Hamden Cemetery. 

Please visit www.rmwilliamsfuneralservice.com to leave a message of comfort, encouragement, or condolence to the family or to view Ann's online video tribute. 

Ann’s life was a testament to the power of kindness and dedication. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and lovingly remembered for her unwavering commitment to those she cared for, both near and far.

R.M. Williams Funeral Service, Wellston, is honored to care for Ann and her family.