Matthew Coots, 71, of Lejunior, departed this life on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Hazard Appalachian Regional Hospital. Born December 23, 1953, Harlan County, he had lived here all of his life. Matthew was a coal miner with 41 and a half years of experience underground having last worked for the Harlan Cumberland Coal Company. He was a hard-working man and enjoyed hunting, and fishing and spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Estill and Della Coots; a sister, Bernice Russell; and three brothers, David, Joel and Donnie Coots.

Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Doris Mills Coots, Lejunior, three children, Katina Coots and fiancé, Elroy Perkins, Shorttown; Amanda Mills, Lejunior; and Anthony Coots and fiancé, Amanda Hoskins, Dartmont; five sisters, Catherine Fleenor, Evelyn Elliott, Mattie Day, Maxine Lunsford and Anita Taylor; and two brothers, Titus and Timothy Coots. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Rex Rittenhouse, Riley Mills, Taylor Coots, Raiden Reece and Matthew Lee Coots; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Visitation will be held Monday, October 20, 2025, at the Evarts Funeral Home from 1 until 3 pm. Funeral services will begin at 3 pm in the Chapel with the Reverend Lloyd Ray Burkhart officiating. Burial will follow in the Evarts Memorial Gardens with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

Evarts Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Matthew Coots.