James "Jimmy" Lawrence Coley

James "Jimmy" Lawrence Coley, a cherished pillar of the Red Hill community in Gate City, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, April 11, 2026. Born on February 3, 1945, in Gate City, VA, Jimmy lived a life marked by unwavering faith, deep devotion to family, and an unshakable love for the outdoors.

A lifelong farmer at heart, Jimmy found solace and joy in tending the land—his roots firmly intertwined with the soil of his beloved hometown. His life’s work extended beyond the fields, as he proudly retired from Holston Defense. Yet, it was his membership at Red Hill Freewill Baptist Church that stood as one of his proudest accomplishments, a testament to a life guided by faith and community.

Jimmy’s radiant personality shone brightest through his love for the Lord and his joy in singing, expressions of his spirit that touched all who knew him. Known for his warm heart and open nature, he never met a stranger; every encounter was an opportunity for connection, every person a new friend. Above all, his family remained his pride and joy, a reflection of the love and kindness he gave so freely.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Patsy Coley; his son, Alex Coley alongside daughter-in-law Tracy; and his devoted sister, Patty Coley Hillman, as well as his brother, Johnny Coley. The legacy of Jimmy lives on in his grandchildren, Brennan (Kristina) Coley and Ethan (Emily) Coley, as well as his step-grandchildren, Ryan (Natalie) Sizemore and Ashley Sizemore. His heart also embraces his great-grandchildren, Claire Coley, Declan Coley, and Sophie Sizemore, along with stepdaughter-in-law Jessica Sizemore Hill. Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, including Rita Sizemore, Brenda (Terry) Gilliam, Cathy Walker, Tammy (Johnny) Kimbler, Jeff (Debbie) Lane, Jim (Sandy) Lane, and Randall (Connie) Lane, share in the collective remembrance of a man who touched so many lives. His lifelong friend, Darius Hall, and his beloved “fur babies” Crickett, Freckles, Billy, and Ace, alongside numerous nieces and nephews, carry forward the warmth of his presence.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, A.B. (Burge) and Ova Price Coley; his sisters, Nancy Coley Davis and Betty Coley Turner; niece Holly Burgess; stepson Robert Sizemore; first wife Judy Pierson Coley; and brothers-in-law Jim Davis, Bill Turner, James Hillman, James Sizemore, and Fred Walker.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Red Hill Freewill Baptist Church, 1674 Red Hill Rd, Gate City, VA with Pastor Vernon McDavid officiating. Music will be provided by Sophie Sizemore, Mattie Basket, Johnny Kimbler and the Red Hill Singers, honoring a man whose faith, family, and kindness taught all who knew him the true meaning of love and community.

The family would like to extend special thanks to MSA Hospice Nurses, Clara, Tiffany, Molly, Karlie and Gabby for their wonderful care for Jimmy.

Jimmy Coley’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with joy, faith, and the boundless love he held for those around him. Though he has left this world, his spirit—with its gentle songs and enduring legacy—will forever echo in the hearts of his loved ones and all who were fortunate enough to know him.