Some embodiments of the present invention comprise a method of cementing comprising: placing a settable composition into a well bore, the settable composition comprising remediated coal ash, hydraulic cement, and water; and allowing the settable composition to set. Other embodiments comprise a method of cementing comprising: placing a settable composition into a well bore, the settable composition comprising remediated coal ash, calcium hydroxide (lime), and water; and allowing the settable composition to set. Other embodiments comprise a settable composition comprising: remediated coal ash, hydraulic cement, calcium hydroxide, natural pozzolan and water; and allowing the composition to set. Other embodiments comprise a settable composition comprising remediated coal ash and any combination of hydraulic cement, calcium hydroxide, slag, fly ash, and natural or other pozzolan.