James W. Schott

James W. Schott, 69, of Seneca, formerly of the Zelienople area, died Wednesday morning, March 26, 2025 at Oil City Healthcare, following a battle with cancer. 

He was born in Akron, Ohio on April 29, 1955 to the late James W. and Thelma May (Nicodemus) Bathurst. 

Jim served in the U.S. Navy from 1972 through 1974. 

He was a member of A.B.A.T.E. motorcycle group (Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education).  Jim enjoyed camping, carpentry work, being outdoors, and his dogs. 

He worked many years as a carpenter as well as a truck driver. 

He was attending the Rouseville United Methodist Church.

Jim was married in Texas on March 31, 2023 to the former Judy L. (Bell) Bloom, and she survives. 

Also surviving is his son, James L. Schott and his wife Michelle of Marienville and their daughters Erica and Anna; a step-daughter, Tracy Morgan and her husband Jeff  and their sons Matthew and Nicholas; and step-great-grandchildren Quinton and Madilyne. 

Jim is also survived by two brothers, Wayne Carson and his wife Dawn, and Harold Schott. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Thelma; a brother, Philip “Dean” Carson; and a half-sister, Diana Bathurst. 

Family and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Jim’s Life on Saturday, April 26th beginning at noon, at Jim and Judy’s home, 320 Tippery Road in Seneca.  The celebration will begin with a memorial service led by Pastor Melissa Whitling of the Rouseville United Methodist Church, followed by a luncheon. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Venango County Humane Society, 286 S. Main St., Seneca, PA  16346. 

Private funeral arrangements were completed by Hile-Best Funeral Home in Seneca.  To express online condolences to Jim’s family, visit www.hilebest.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James W. Schott, please visit our floral store.