Kenneth Neal Coats Jr.

Kenneth Neal Coats, Jr., 77, passed away on September 9, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. Born on December 10, 1947, in Littlefield, Texas, Kenneth lived a life marked by faith, hard work, and deep devotion to his family and community.

He graduated from Morton High School in 1965 and went on to attend West Texas State University through his sophomore year, where he played football. He then returned home to assist his parents on the family farm—a decision that reflected his lifelong commitment to those he loved.

Kenneth’s professional journey was as diverse as it was dedicated. While living in Wolfforth, Texas, he worked for County Precinct One before answering a higher calling and becoming a pastor at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Lubbock. After his time in ministry, he took on various roles that showcased both his skills and work ethic. He commuted by motorcycle to Levelland to work at Murrell's Welding for six months before becoming known as the “Frito Lay Man” after moving back to Levelland. When his delivery route was shortened, Kenneth built a welding truck and began part-time welding four days a week. Eventually, he transitioned into a full-time welder. Kenneth was the owner and operator of One-Way Welding, which he established in 1978. The company name One Way was his way of sharing the fact that there is only One Way to the Lord with the people he worked for. He worked for companies such as Amoco, Oxy, Exxon Mobil, Apache, Norton-Sitton Drilling, Vernon Drilling, Renegade, and Sabinal. When the oil field industry slowed down, Kenneth continued working with local farmers—building fences, repairing shredders, or helping with whatever was needed.

Kenneth’s life was rooted in faith. Saved at the age of nineteen—a moment that inspired his father’s salvation shortly thereafter—his spiritual journey became the cornerstone of how he lived and raised his family. He served as a deacon at College Avenue Baptist Church and was an active member of the youth committee for many years. His unwavering devotion to the Lord was evident to all who met him; he never hesitated to pray with anyone in need. For the past ten years, Wednesday nights were reserved for Kingdom Kids with his grandchildren—a tradition that brought him immense joy.

Kenneth met the love of his life, Frances Price, while drag racing on a dirt road in Cochran County—a fitting beginning for a man who loved speed and adventure. His hobbies reflected his zest for life: drag racing, hunting, riding street bikes and dirt bikes—anything with two wheels brought him joy. Friday night rides with Frances to dinner with friends or family, or trips to Tres Ritos, were cherished traditions. He also found great fulfillment in supporting his grandchildren’s many activities—from basketball, football, volleyball, baseball, soccer, and cheerleading to dance.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Frances Carol Coats; children Kerry Wayne and Sara Coats, Kandi Ranee Coats and Fabian Murillo, and Korey and Sommer Coats; grandchildren Kenzie Ranee and Mason Trujillo, Kaylom Bryce Coats, Charlstyn (Kelsey) Gore, Gage Wayne Potter, Kanaan Gregory Coats, Jake Cody Potter, Lola Klair Potter, Linkoln Neal Coats, Stella Grace Coats, Evie Elizabeth Coats, and Collynn Gray Coats; great-grandchildren Henry Glenn Bautista and Hason Krue Trujillo; siblings Deanna and Dan Williams, Keith and Susan Coats, Kim and Brenda Coats; brother- and sister-in-loves Glenda and David Gibson, Ricky and Deborah Price, Dennis and Monica Price, Becky and Tim Cook; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Modene Coats; his in-laws, Jimmie Price, Selma Price, JoAnn Price; his grandparents, Oscar and Mabel Coats, and Perry and Alma Altman; and brother-in-love, Randy Price.

Kenneth Neal Coats leaves behind a legacy of faithfulness—to God, to family, to friends—and a life well-lived through service both spiritual and practical. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A Funeral Service will be held on September 12, 2025, at 10:00 AM at College Avenue Baptist Church 213 North College. Visitation will be held on September 11, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Krestridge Funeral Home at 505 Austin Street in Levelland.

Services with integrity, pride, and honor are under the direction of Krestridge Funeral Home. (806) 897-1111