Joe Cota, age 77, of Blythe, California, passed away on January 8, 2026. He was born on March 8, 1948, in Blythe, where he spent most of his life serving and shaping the community he loved.

Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army after joining in 1968, completing two years of service. Following his military service, he dedicated his professional life to recreation and youth development as the Recreation Director at the Joe Wine Recreation Center in Blythe.

A passionate coach and mentor, Joe coached many sports over the years, including flag football and women's basketball. He was especially well known for his long-standing role as the men's high school basketball coach at Palo Verde High School. To many, he was more than a coach—he was a mentor, role model, and steady source of guidance for generations of young athletes.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ann Cota, who passed away in 1999. Together they raised their daughter, Bridget, who remained the center of Joe's life.

Joe is survived by his only daughter, Bridget Cota; his siblings, Frank Cota (Lourdes) and Linda Spivey (Bobby); his nieces and nephews Robert Spivey, Danette Salvatierra Spivey, Roberta Spivey Sosa (Julian), Frankie Cota, Mary Helen Donez (Bobby), Cecilia Romero (Jesus), Rachel Guillen (Ron), Patricia Adkins (Brian) and Gilbert Cota (Valentina) also his niece Mary Kipfmiller; as well as many additional nieces and nephews in Michigan.

Known as the funniest guy in the room, Joe could always tell a story—whether it was completely true or not—and leave everyone laughing. His humor, generosity, and dedication to mentoring young people made him a pillar of the Blythe community for many years.

Joe Cota's legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the players he coached, and the laughter he shared. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Frye Chapel & Mortuary, located at 633 North 7th Street, Blythe, California 92225.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 875 East Chanslor Way, Blythe, California 92225.

Burial will follow at Palo Verde Cemetery, 343 West 10th Avenue, Blythe, California 92225.

A funeral reception will be held afterward at VFW Post 2987, 148 North 1st Street, Blythe, California 92225