Barbara “Bo” Jo (Hattan) Coats

Barbara CoatsBarbara "Bo" Jo (Hattan) Coats, 85 of Billings, passed away in Billings October 13, 2011. She was born on May 8, 1926, to Grover and Lida Hattan.

Bo attended Cottey College and Wichita State University, from which she graduated and was a member of the Sorosis Sorority. Over the years, Bo was active in various positions of Volunteer programs for several organizations. She was the president of the YWCA in Grand Island, Nebraska and was the director of volunteers from the Denver Public Library and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program in Yakima, Washington. She also taught child psychology at the St. Francis nursing school. She was also a long time member of PEO and First Presbyterian Church. She loved chocolate, wine, people and parties.

Bo was married to James Lee Coats, who predeceased her. She is survived by her children; Christopher Coats, Deborah Coats Garland, Cynthia Coats Randall, William Coats, Carolyn Coats Martin, and Lawrence Coats; and her grandchildren; Kailey Garland, Alyssa and Lindsey Martin, Julia and Peter Randall, and Charlie and Karen Coats.

The family wishes to thank Riverstone Hospice.

A private family service is planned. Memorial contributions may be made to: Diabetes Camp for Kids c/o Billings Clinic Foundation P.O. Box 31031 Billings, MT 59107.