James Roudolph Coleman

James Roudolph Coleman, lovingly known to friends as "Foxy," passed away leaving behind a legacy of strength, generous service, and unconditional love. Though he was a prankster, he was also a God fearing man of his word and held firm to his beliefs.

Drafted during the Korean War, James proudly served in the U.S. Army from February of 1951 to January of 1953, as a Corporal in the 49th ReCon Company, 47th Infantry Division, stationed at Camp Rucker, AL. Following his military service, he devoted his working life to Roxboro Broom Works in the late 1940s, Coleman Cab Company in the mid - 1950s, and spent nearly four decades as a dependable employee at Continental Can from 1956 until his retirement in 1994. A proud member of the Sappony tribe, James committed a lifetime to community service as a charter member of the Hopewell Moose Lodge, a longtime member of the Hopewell Optimist Club, American Legion Post 146, and Woodmen of the World.

Built like a refrigerator-square, stocky, and a true workhorse-James was stronger than men half his age and could outwork anyone. His happiest moments were spent on the Coleman Family farm where he grew up, tending his garden, and sharing his fresh produce with everyone around him. On the golf course, he was a formidable opponent who loved playing alongside his brother Phil and his nephews. Above all, James was a gentleman in every sense of the word, known for kissing a lady's hand to show respect, offering a loud laugh paired with a wide smile, and never missing a chance to call loved ones to sing "Happy Birthday." A Jack-of-all-trades, he was the ultimate Stew Master, Spaghetti Sauce Maestro, King of the Cooker and Grill, and Chief Salesman at the Christmas Tree Lot. If he saw a need, there was nothing he wouldn't do to help.

James was preceded in death by his faithful and loving wife of almost 50 years, Barbara Maddy Coleman; his parents, James Stanton Coleman and Nettie Agnes Talley; his children, Valerie Ann Coleman, Robin Micheal Coleman, and Teila Page Coleman; his bonus daughter, Joyce McDaniel; and his siblings, Lois C. Stewart, Katherine C. Epps, Stanton William Coleman, Nannie C. Martin, Nettie C. Talley, Henry Coleman, Mae C. Shepherd, Eliza Ann C. Goins, and Lilly C. Moss.

He is survived by his devoted partner of over 20 years, Linda Blankenship; his dedicated children, Tonda Coleman Huddleston (Rick), Louwanna Coleman James, and Romal C. Coleman (Aimee); his caring son-in-law, Joe P. Moore; and his brother, Phil M. Coleman (Linda). James was affectionately known as "Pop" by seven adoring grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind beloved bonus children, Michele Thomas (Joel), Brian Blankenship (Dana), and Karen Jarratt (Keith); six bonus grandchildren; five bonus great-grandchildren; loyal lifelong friends, Royster "Chat" Epps & Esther; and a multitude of cherished nieces, nephews, and family members.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 502 W. Broadway, Hopewell, VA 23860. The funeral to celebrate James' Homegoing will be immediately following the viewing at the church at 2:00 p.m. The Hopewell Optimist Club will be hosting family and friends with a meal at the Hopewell Optimist Club, located at 1310 Lynchburg St., Hopewell, VA 23860. There will be a burial on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at Sunset Memorial Park, 2901 W. Hundred Road, Chester, VA 23831.

In the spirit of James' generosity and in lieu of flowers, please make donations in memoriam of James to the Hopewell Optimist Club, P.O. Box 1194, Hopewell, VA 23860 OR Calvary Baptist Church, "cemetery fund", 2663 High Plains Road, Roxboro, NC 27574.