Curtis Arnold Cozby

Curtis Arnold "Papa Bear" Cozby, 80, passed away peacefully on Monday February 2, 2015. Coach Cozby's life both on and off the football field was an illustration of a compassionate, caring and giving man who touched the lives of so many individuals. A memorial service will be at 2:00 pm on Thursday, February 5, 2015 at the Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Arrangements are with Robert Massie Funeral Home. Curtis was born on February 1, 1935 in Gorman, Texas to Curtis Pounds and Mattie Sue (Slaughter) Cozby. Curtis grew up in De Leon, Texas and went on to attend Howard Payne University where he excelled in football, setting numerous records and received a bachelor's degree in Accounting. He then furthered his education by obtaining a master's degree and counselor's certification from Texas A&M University. Curtis was an educator of the San Angelo Independent School District for over 30 years where he coached and mentored many student athletes. After his retirement, Curtis was an active member of the San Angelo Retired Teachers Association. Curtis married Joan Poulter Cozby in 1981. They enjoyed 33 years of marriage. Curtis and Joan loved traveling and reminiscing about family and friends. Curtis was preceded in death by his wife, Joan; parents, Curtis and Mattie Sue; sister, Dorothy Ann Cozby; son, Mark Alan Cosby; and a grandson, Paul Alan Cozby. Curtis is survived by his son, Curtis Lynn Cozby and his wife Olga of Devine, Texas; grandson, Lon Ellis Cozby of Devine, Texas; granddaughter, Caitlin Anne Couch and her husband Jerod of Burnet, Texas; granddaughter, Stephanie Lowrance of Cedar Park, Texas; great grandson, Aden Wayne Couch of Burnet, Texas; step daughter, Kimberly Hatem of San Angelo, Texas; stepson, Charles Hatem of Everett, WA; nephew, Michael Poulter and his wife Patricia of San Angelo, Texas; many dear friends and his favorite buddy, Rusty, his apricot toy poodle. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a charitable donation be made in memory of Curtis to the San Angelo Retired Teachers Scholarship Fund, C/O Sue Taylor, 3214 Forest Hill, San Angelo, Texas 76904 or to your favorite charity. The family would like to express a special thank you to the nursing staff and caregivers of Shannon Medical Center and Senior Care of Meadow Creek Nursing Center. Papa, husband and coach, you will be dearly missed by all.