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James Coleman Obituary
He is preceded in death by his daughter, Catherine Ashley Coleman, and his father, Clayton Noyes Coleman, Sr.
He is survived by his daughter, Lauren Coleman of Franklin, Tenn.; his mother, Mrs. Addie Shirley Hoole of Tuscaloosa; brother, Clayton Noyes Coleman, Jr., D.M.D., of Santa Fe, N.M.; sister, Emily Coleman Moore (Robin) of Tuscaloosa; aunt, Mrs. Anne Shirley McNeff of Tuscaloosa; niece, Katherine Moore of Columbia, S.C.; nephew, Henry Moore of Birmingham, Ala.; and several cousins.
Dr. Coleman was educated in local schools, received his undergraduate degree from The University of Alabama and his medical degree from The University of Alabama Medical School. He graduated from both institutions Cum Laude. Other honors include: Phi Beta Kappa as an undergraduate and Alpha Omega Alpha and The Award for Excellence in Basic Sciences from the University of Alabama School of Medicine.
In addition to his love for medicine, he was also an accomplished musician. He learned to play the guitar while in Tuscaloosa Junior High School and played in local bands, The Gents and The Rubber Band. He composed music as well as lyrics and produced several CD's that demonstrated his skill as a guitarist, composer and singer. His taste in music was eclectic and his interests and talents ranged from classical to jazz. His latest interest was composing, playing and singing gospel music.
A graveside service will be 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2008, at Evergreen City Cemetery with Rev. Kenneth Fields officiating and Heritage Chapel Funeral Home, a Dignity Memorial Provider, directing.
Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Bony Barrineau, Delaine Mountain, Michael Kavanaugh, Buddy Martin, Chuck Leavell, and Drayton Wear.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The William Stanley Hoole Special Collection Library at The University of Alabama or to the charity of choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Coleman
Sponsored by friends of Jim.
David Hungate
April 21, 2025
Missing you my friend.
Joy Henley
April 18, 2025
Remembering you today, Jim...You often spoke of your daughter, Lauren and your love for her. You left me with incredible memories! You are always in my heart. How I miss you...
Lauren
July 9, 2024
Hi, this is Jim's daughter, Lauren. Thanks for your messages everyone. I can't believe there are still people posting here and thinking about him in 2024. It really means a lot.
John Fowler
June 1, 2024
Jim: Another year has passed by. My recollections of you remain as bright and inspiring as ever.
Courtney Keene
April 19, 2024
Miss you and think about you often Dr. Jim!
Joy Henley
April 18, 2024
I think of you so often. Lots of love, Jim...
Jeff Harlan
April 18, 2024
Missing you, Jim.
JOHN FOWLER
April 18, 2022
Another year has passed and it seems that as I get older, I think about Jim more frequently and regret that his life was cut short before he could enjoy everything that getting (just a bit...) older brings us. I talk about him often with friends and colleagues. He was a wonderful fellow.
Emily Moore
April 18, 2022
Thinking of you today. How I wish you were here and playing your guitar! I miss you.
Joy Henley
April 17, 2022
Missing you like crazy and I cherish our memories, Jim!
Joy Henley
April 18, 2021
Thinking of you, Jim. You left us 13 years ago today. When I go to Nashville, I always wish you were there. You're forever in my heart.
David Hungate
April 17, 2021
April and I miss you Jim!
Joy Henley
April 18, 2020
Always in my heart...miss and love you, Jim.
Thinking of you, Jim
Jeff Harlan
April 26, 2019
Joy Henley
April 18, 2019
Remembering Jim today! He has been gone 11 years and it seems like we were just talking yesterday. He was such a caring, dear friend...one I miss terribly. As I said I would do in Seattle, I did it, Jim! I made it to Nashville! The only thing missing in Music City is you. Lots of love to you and your dear family...
April 17, 2019
Been thinking about you this week as I have been doing some genealogy work. You and I spoke about our family shortly before you died, and now, you are able to connect the dots in person! Wow, what a great family reunion awaits the rest of us. Miss you very much, Jim. Cousin Kathy
John Fowler
February 17, 2019
It's hard to believe Jim has been gone for 10 years. I think of him often.
We trained together at Oregon Health Sciences University as Fellows in pulmonary disease and had an amazing amount of fun together. After he moved to Tennessee we stayed in touch by phone and an occasional visit. Discussing difficult clinical problems with him was always rewarding. I can safely say he was the smartest doctor I ever met.
Jim, as some of these messages suggest, could be prickly and did not suffer fools gladly. But that was because he held himself to an extraordinarily high standard and everything he did.
His sense of humor and mischief were legendary. We shared a few adventures during training that are best not mentioned in public, but, suffice it to say, he knew how to draw an introvert out of his shell!
While we weren't close friends, I admired Jim immensely and he will always be a part of my life.
Joy Henley
October 11, 2017
Thinking of you today with much love, Jim...
RIP Jim. Chuck Leavell left, ROSEANN Weatherington right- Nashville
Roseann Weatherington
August 18, 2017
Jane Hale
April 19, 2016
I so wish Jim was still walking amongst us, I really need him to be here now. He was a great doctor and a great friend. Missing Jim...
Stephanie Gudeman
April 19, 2016
I will always miss your infectious laugh and unwavering friendship. I miss you calling me up and playing a new song, your corny jokes. Thought of you a lot yesterday - some things do not get better with time.
Joe Diamond
April 19, 2016
Jim would call me every day in between patients. We had some very interesting conversations. Joe Diamond
Emily Moore
April 19, 2016
I thought of Jim so many times yesterday. It is comforting to know I was not alone.
Joy Henley
April 18, 2016
Hard to believe you left us 8 years ago today...You're always in my heart, dear guitar man.
Ken Spooner
November 8, 2015
I just finished reading Dr. Coleman's manuscript of his unpublished book "Chet Mate" yesterday. As a lifelong guitarist , songwriter and author,and someone who knew the white, grey and black sides of Mr. Guitar, there was much to hold my interest throughout the book. In doing so I felt I alsi got to know Jim somewhat, and am sorry, I never got to meet him or hear him play. It was my researching his life in music, that lead me here, where I have learned he not only attended the medical needs of Chet Atkins, but other fine Nashville musicians, like my friend Roy Huskey. In reading co author Tom Carter's entry I was dismayed to learn that "Legal Reasons" prevented the publication of the book that Chet himself authorizes to be printed in the forward. All I can now wish for is they are all still making beautiful music together somewhere.
Jim Coleman in April 1953.
Kathy Barr
October 13, 2015
Found another photo of Jim Coleman with his grandparents, his mother, and his aunt in 1953. Jim was the cutest little boy. Miss him.
Joe Diamond
October 13, 2015
Jim, Happy Birthday. I miss all of the morning calls from you in between your patients. I also miss living in Alabama. My favorite state.
Jim Coleman with his cousins in 1953. He is sitting at Emily's feet.
October 12, 2015
I forgot it was his birthday on the 10th but on that day I was printing a photo for Emily of the Becker-Dowling-Coleman cousins in 1953. At the time, I looked at his sweet face and thought he was such a cute little boy. He was. Miss him, too.
October 12, 2015
Joy, it is so good to see you also remembered Jim on his birthday.I, too, thought of him many times during the day.
Emily Moore
Joy Henley
October 11, 2015
Happy Birthday, Jim! You are missed beyond words...sending love to you!
Sheryl Bransford
September 10, 2015
Dr Coleman, I was just thinking about you today.There were lots of fun and laughter in the office while working with you.
Rest in Heaven.
Joy Henley
April 18, 2015
You left us 7 years ago today and you're forever in my heart, Jim.
October 13, 2014
Just learned about your passing. We will miss you, Jim. Lots of fun memories of our time in La Jolla, California. Rest in peace, dear friend. Fleur and Jack Schim
Jim Conner
October 13, 2014
Dude: So many special times, tales, and laughter. You are remembered by many!
October 11, 2014
Happy Birthday, Jim! You're forever in my heart. Sure miss you...
Jane Drake Hale
October 11, 2014
Today is your 64th Birthday! Your friends and I miss you Jim. A smile of gratitude, love, and remembrance come to all that speak your name. I was in Tuscaloosa the other weekend and thought of you while marching with the UA MDB! Your UA lanyard and 2007 ticket remain hanging in my room waiting for our next game.
You'll remain in my heart forever. <3 Happy Birthday Jim!
Alice Dorsey
April 20, 2014
I hear so many people talk of Dr. Colemans music. He was my
Doctor for many years. I would so like to hear him play and sing.
Can anybody tell me how to hear
His music or get a copy of his CD.
I do miss him every day
[email protected]
Jim Conner
April 19, 2014
On this anniversary, you are in my thoughts, dude. I am blessed to have called you friend for a very long time.
Jane Drake Hale
April 19, 2014
Thinking about Jim all the time, and recently was able to listen to his music again after six long years. Now it is Easter Weekend, filled with warm thoughts of happy times. Jim's presence remains in our hearts. Miss you so much.
Joy Henley
April 18, 2014
Six years ago was a sad day. I miss you so much Jim and always carry you in my heart. With lots of love...
A picture I took of Jim, about 10+ years ago, after he played numerous songs on some of his 52 left handed guitars he had in his basement. He beamed.
Jeff Harlan
April 6, 2014
I listened to your tribute to the works of Domenico Scarletti the other day and was overwhelmed with tears of emotion. I didn't see it coming, as I played it for my girlfriend to listen to your talent and enjoy your style. What I realized is that I hadn't listened to it since 2007. It was very rejuvenating and cathartic experience to share my love for you with my girlfriend, expressing myself in ways I'm not normally comfortable doing. I miss you so much, Jim!
S Gudeman
January 17, 2014
Miss your simple greatness. I know you and Randy are adding a mighty voice to the Heavenly Choir up there. It will be a fine day when we all meet again. Until then we all miss you so!
Joy Henley
October 12, 2013
Thought of you on your birthday...how I miss you. You're always in my heart, Jim.
Cynthia Coleman
November 7, 2012
I still miss you too.
Happy 61st Birthday Jim! 10-11-12. We are lucky to have been able to call you our friend. We all miss you, and love you!
October 11, 2012
Happy 61st Birthday Dear Jim 10-11-12, You will always live on in our hearts. How lucky we are to have known you! I miss you too.
October 11, 2012
October 11, 2012
Happy Birthday, Jim! I miss you and always carry you in my heart!
Liz Sharpe
August 27, 2012
Dr Jay...I miss you. I ran into your daughter at whole foods and she told me she got in to Princeton on scholarship. I am so proud of her and you would be as well!
I remember the wonderful relationship that the two I you had.
You were a great friend, doctor and a wonderful musician. I can't thank you enough for believing in me all of those years and supporting my career by bringing me to you publisher friends and loaning me instruments!
You touched so many lives and brought so many people together in this town. Your good works did not go unnoticed. I'm sure you are still playing music up in heaven and I always called you an angel on earth. Now you are one for real. Just know that you will never be forgotten. Thank you!
April Barrows
October 13, 2010
Many thoughts of Dr. Jim on his 60th Birthday...we miss you so much!
April and David
Kimberly Robertson
October 12, 2010
I miss you and that free spirit!!!
Courtney Keene
October 12, 2010
Thinking of you on your birthday Dr. Jim. Missing your sweet smile and happy songs.
Joy Henley
October 11, 2010
Thinking of you and missing you Jim, on your 60th birthday...
Elisha McKay
October 11, 2010
Happy 60th Birthday, Dr Coleman. We really miss your unique spirit and your ability to bring a smile.
virginia crooks
September 12, 2010
Sure do miss you a lot! Great Doctor.
Joy Henley
October 11, 2009
Happy Birthday Jim! Thinking of you today and always carrying you in my heart. Sending love to you and all of your family.
Kaye Carden Keith
July 18, 2009
Jim was my very first boyfriend. He asked me out on the playground at University Place Elementary School. Our romance was short but our friendship lasted through high school (I still remember what he wrote in my year book - typical Jim humor) and we were lab partners as Freshmen at UA. I moved away and we lost touch but I never forgot him and have often thought of him. Today on a quest to try and find some of the people I have lost touch with, I learned of Jim's passing. I am very saddened. He was a great person and I am happy that I have my fond memories of him.
Tom Carter
June 3, 2009
Jim Coleman became my primary care physician when he bought the practice of my former Nashville doctor. I had earlier collaborated to write the autobiographies of some of the world's foremost celebrity singer/musicians. One day, Jim explained how his chance encounter with Chet Atkins resulted in friendship bordering on brotherhood. Jim told me how he'd diagnosed the cancer that eventually killed Chet, and how mercilessly painful it was for him to tell the maestro, by then his best friend. Jim showed me Chet's telling x-ray that subtly showed the tumor that other physicians had reportedly missed. He talked about being the guest guitarist on Chet's final shows, one performed in Chet's hometown. He asked me to help him write a book about his days with Chet. I did, in the fashion of "Tuesdays With Morrie," a book by Mitch Albom based on eighteen interviews Mitch did with Morrie, a former college professor Mitch admired.
Jim had done 247 interviews with Chet.
After each, he raced home to transcribe the encounter. Jim and I spent two years creating what became a compelling and touching read. I found a major publisher, but the book was not to be, primarily due to legal issues. The world would never read what Jim lived to tell, and that broke his heart.
Jim was my friend and my doctor, in that order. He told me that despite his failed marriages and the death of his daughter, he never got depressed. A few days after Christmas, I found out he'd spent the holiday alone. When he couldn't find an open restaurant, he went to a bar and ate stale sandwiches wrapped in cellophane, which he chased with beer. He stayed there all afternoon, he said, talking to an old and arthritic bartender, as no one else entered the place. Still, that dismal holiday without the company of friends or family did not wither Jim's spirit, he insisted.
“How do you relish a depression-proof mindset?” I asked.
He took me downstairs to a chapel inside Nashville's Centennial Medical Center. A giant book was open on a stand outside the sanctuary. Hand-written entries were left by desperate people who'd come to the chapel to pray, many begging God to spare the life of a terminally ill child, an anguished husband, an incurable wife and others. Jim had treated some of the people who were the beneficiaries of those authors' pleading prayers.
“How can I be depressed,” he said to me, “when there are people all around me who are hurting as much as these?”
For years afterwards, whenever I faced an ebbing of mood, I went to that mammoth and open communal diary. No matter what my circumstance, I always found new cursive from people whose despondency exceeded my own. My heart went to them; my gratitude to Jim. Jim had steered me to "therapy" that was the manifestation of his empathy, not his acquired knowledge.
Today, I saw a cardiologist to whom Jim referred me in 1997. Affectionate talk turned to Jim, and the doctor told me he'd died fourteen months ago. He didn't know how, only that Jim had passed away alone at his residence. I was emotionally slammed. Jim's passing while by himself was tragic irony, as Jim had blessed thousands with his medicine, music and heartfelt capacity to nurture friendship. Busy, I hadn't stayed in touch with Jim, as he was someone I selfishly thought would always be available. We make that mistake regarding those who are always there for us.
I've wept to Jim's recorded songs this afternoon. I can't wait to hear them in heaven. I always told Jim that he could "make it" in music. When I see him playing for the angels, I'll say "I told you so." Until then, I'm compelled to ease my pain by recording it inside a giant diary.
Thanks to Jim, I know exactly where to find one.
Vivian Ortiz
May 18, 2009
I fell in love with Jim when he was 16. Over the next 41 years we kept in touch. Our song was Strawberry Fields Forever. He will always be a part of my life. "Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about" He was my John Lennon.
April Barrows
April 18, 2009
I too, have been thinking about Jim today. Still can't believe he's gone. My thoughts go out to all of Jim's friends and family and I'll close with the heartfelt wish that his wonderful,generous and unique spirit is at rest.
peace and love,
April Barrows
Joy Henley
April 18, 2009
Thinking of you today, Jim. The year has been long without you. Love to you in Heaven...
Jane Drake Hale
April 17, 2009
A beautiful note from David about Jim.
I cherish this story.
Thank You David.
Jane, I met you last summer in NYC.
Like all his many friends I've missed
Jim a lot. Awhile back I was in
Missouri working on an old farmhouse
I bought several years ago with an old
friend I've known since grade school.
It was a Saturday night. The TV
wasn't working, there was nothing of
interest on the radio. We did however
have a CD player, but I'd neglected to
bring CD's or so I thought. After a
thorough search I found one....Jim's
gospel album, the song titles written
in his own hand. I have to confess I'd
never listened to it in depth. I told
my friend about Jim, and we listened.
We were both blown away by Jim's
playing, his singing, his songwriting,
and his beautiful spirit....still alive as
ever in his music. I told April about it
the next day and she reminded me
that "yesterday was Jim's birthday."
Coincidence maybe...but knowing Jim,
maybe not.
All the best,
David Hungate
Mark Moreland
January 25, 2009
I am still mourning the passing of Jim...my musical mentor and friend. I have never encountered such a man in my 54 years.
I love you Jim.
Rest in God's eternal Light..thank you for shining some of that Light on me.
Pam Hoover
November 1, 2008
For weeks I have wanted to write in this guest book but have been in denial about Jim's death. I learned of Jim's death on May 23, 2008. My world stood still. Jim and I talked several times a week , and I considered him one of my very best friends. I could always count on Jim. Time was never important to Jim as he spent as much time as necessary to help a friend, His family, music,friends and patients were top priorities. I knew Jim for 10 years. We shared our musical talents, and he would pitch his new songs to me rarely accepting or liking my suggestions for alterations. However, when he recorded he had typically made the changes I suggested. Today I listened to some of his songs for the first time since I learned of his death. My mom shared the time with me and suggested that I write in Jim's guest book. This is hard because the tears take me by surprise at the oddest times. I met Jane, Jim's friend, in New York last week. We spent some really great time together and shared stories about Jim.It was good for both of us. Jim was amazing and will live in the hearts and minds of those who really knew him as a dear friend, brilliant doctor, and amazingly talented musician. He adored his daugther, Lauren, and his respect and love for his mother was huge.He would say, "My mom is the best. She is always there for me and loves me regardless." He always considered Cynthia his best friend ever. He had a great capacity for love and a generous and tender heart. He made me mad, he made me cry, he made me laugh, he entertained me and challenged me to be a better person by having known him. I talked with Jim the night he died. It was brief, good and ended with a simple, friendly "love you." I am glad I have that memory, and I am especially glad that I had the opportunity to know Jim. Indeed he will always be in my heart. I know he is ok. He knew his Lord. He is picking and singing with the angels in heaven.
Jane Drake Hale
October 11, 2008
Thinking of Jim and his family today, as this is his birthday. October 11th.
We think of you everyday, maybe more so on this sunny Saturday afternoon wishing to talk to you.
Your music plays on forever, your spirit lives on forever in our hearts. We all love and miss you. Jane
Anne McNeff
August 31, 2008
Dr. Jim was a medical specialist and a very special musician. He was well known throughout the music world for his talent and was told by his friend, Chet Atkins, that he was is the wrong business and that he should be in the music world. Jim was a wonderful guitarist and doctor and he will be missed by so many who loved him and his music.
Aunt Bunny
Roseann
August 8, 2008
Dr. Coleman, you were a wonderful Doc, and will be missed, when we moved here from NJ I was told this wasn't the place to live if you have allergies, but because of our children we came, and so did the asthma attatcks, one right after another, but with your patience, and help, you got me throught the first 2 years, and now I am breathing better, but feeling very sad at your passing.
You always had a smile for me, and made me feel like a friend, you listened to my woes, and gave freely of you time, and now,I see your love. I am sorry I never knew of your music, but play on, keep the angels singing. My thoughts to your family, and friends who are missing you tonight! Rest in eternal Peace.
James O. Homer
July 18, 2008
God bless the family and friends of Dr. Coleman, I just received the notice letter from his office today he will surely be missed. I thank him for his care and encouragement for well living.
Gwendolyn Clark
June 16, 2008
To the family of Dr Coleman,
I just learned today of Dr Coleman's passing when I called to schedule my annual physical. He was a special person, kind, caring and compassionate. He will be sorely missed. I enjoyed talking with him, hearing about his music, hobbies, his daughter, and Harry Potter. Dr Coleman was special...heaven is brighter with him in residence there. You have my sincere and heartfelt sympathy and my prayers.
God Bless
Richard Buttrey
June 12, 2008
My deepest condolescences to the family of Dr. Coleman. He was my doctor for many years and was by far the best doctor I have ever seen. I will miss him terribly.
Margaret Butler
May 21, 2008
Dr. Coleman,I was so shocked to hear of your untimely passing.I will miss you very much.You were my Doctor for so long ,it like losing a member of my family.I admired and trusted you as my Doctor and Friend.
April Barrows
May 14, 2008
JIm became my doctor and dear friend about 15 years ago. We were such good friends, I had to remind myself to use the title of Dr. when I was at his office. Of course, anyone who ever knew him, knew what a character he was! The jokes, the music, not just the concerts,- but all the projects he did over the years. Not to mention the full volume blasts of 'You've got mail'!! Over 15 years, alot of stuff happened. And alot of it was sad and tragic...Some of it came with the territory but some of it was Jim's own personal tragedies. We went through it all together and I never once thought he wouldn't always be here.
For those who don't know, Jim helped many musicians. Roy Huskey, Randy Howard, Chet Atkins, Terry McMillan,to name a few of the departed and probably many more. Jim gave out free care, medicine and help to many musicians who had no other options. He even helped a couple of us get on tenncare when we had no way of getting insurance. And, when we showed up for some medical care, he'd say, oh, come in here! I know for certain, he could drive the staff a little nuts but the thing was, was that he was loved by them. And they weren't staff-they were family. He was a brilliant doctor and tender as well. Of course, I prefered the nurse to administer shots, but I saw Jim be the true healer and that was the call he answered.
Jim was a great musician-and did it backwards and upside down!-had he chosen to enter the profession, I think he'd be known for that, but I think it was his heart that led him to become a healer and to give so much more than he received. He was very proud of himself for curing his daughter Lauren of her asthma. And Lauren, everytime we saw him he mentioned how pleased he was with how you were doing in school.
Of course, he wasn't an angel, he was complicated, funny, crass, and sometimes just oblivious to what the proper behavior might be, but golly, he was full of life, love and energy. We always enjoyed having him drop by our gigs and he'd even play the guitar sometimes. Jim would certainly liven the place up...and I could talk to him privately anytime about anything....as I read over the other postings, I can see that the Jim I knew was the same way with alot of people.. Funny, generous, smart as heck, loving, kooky, and certainly one of a kind. It's been awfully hard to accept reality.
Thank you, James Coleman, for all you gave us, for your unselfish generosity of spirit. Your friendship and memories will be cherished.
God speed and God bless
April Barrows (Nashville, TN)
Jane Drake Hale
May 13, 2008
My dear dearest Jim……my best friend.
Although I think he was the best friend of many.
One of Jim’s greatest gifts was networking his friends to meet his other friends.
I just loved this about him!
I met Jim July 25, 1993.
We were both flying American Eagle out of Tuscaloosa to Nashville where I would make my connection to NYC.
My seat was 7A and Jim was 8A…always nervous to fly a turboprop small plane this one began to have condensation fog rising from the floor, so I took my foot out of my sandal and swirled it in the cool fog….. Jim’s first comment was "WOW, that is Cool”!, .. I was able to capture the fog and ball it up and toss it back to him ….. his next comment was “How come you paint your toe nails and not your finger nails”??!!
Funny how we remember such silly things…. the entire trip, I had this fellow talking it up in my ear, as I was not turning around to entertain. As we left the plane he ask what was my name….I just smiled and handed him my New York magazine and told him to have a good day.
On the magazine was my name and address…. And, somehow he managed to take a picture of us at the airport. Of course, I never expected to hear from him again, apparently he wrote a letter to my address, which I never received, then he managed to find my number….. with this we developed a great friendship.
Jim’s last words to me were about photos I recently took from the view of my balcony in NYC…and, he said “This is where I am going to be living in a few more years”. We had this agreement if we do not fall in love with another person, we would be roommates when we get old.
The richness of our very special friendship is more than I will type here…
Jim always told me over and over again about life, and how we can be here today and gone tomorrow. How to live each day to it’s fullest. The first few hours after hearing about his death, it just seemed he had prepared me ….. however, he didn’t prepare me for the extraordinary empty space, Jim was my rock.
Through the years of having known Jim, I have never met such a selfless person.
He would drive for hours to visit my parents living on a Farm in Kentucky, and offer medical advise, but more importantly, he would play his guitar lovingly and would engage in such conversations that edified my parents.
There is only one Jim Coleman, his unique playfulness toward life would bring out the kid in us, just have fun and laugh and love….yes, Jim….you will remain in spirit with us forever, that is until we meet again. I love you.
Phillip Pilcher
May 12, 2008
Doc: You will be missed by many.I was one of Doc's patients when he first came to Nashville and was untill the day he left us . I won't ever forget the first time I meet him at his office and he took a picture of me first thing and said,now that we have something to remember you by let's see what you look like in ten years. Ten years latter he looked at me and said Phillip we both have gotten ten years older, I am still about about the same,but where did the other 65 pounds you were carring go,and ha!! Istill have my hair and you don't. Boy I sure will miss you and your strumming guitar.Thanks for being a friend. Love to all that miss you.
Guy R. Swanson
May 9, 2008
My prayers are with Miss Addie, Emily, Clay, and other family members.
Sheila Howard
May 7, 2008
I was a patient of Dr. Coleman's for the last several years. I feel as though I have lost a friend. May you find comfort in your memories.
Andrew Virata
May 7, 2008
I first met Dr. Coleman as a medical student rotating through his office. I enjoyed his teaching of the sciences, but found his personality more interesting. The jokes, the stories and the guitar playing between appointments were a blast. We struck up a friendship after the rotation. I can recall several occasions helping Jim with his computer woes and designing artwork for his various album covers. We kept in touch over the years and when my friends and I came down from Wisconsin for the Music City Bowl, he wouldn’t let us stay at a hotel, but insisted we stay with him-just one small example of his kindness and friendship. I can’t say that I’ve ever met anyone like Jim, but I will miss him dearly as both a mentor and a friend. God bless you, Jim.
Elizabeth Cato MD
May 6, 2008
You will be sorely missed-Dr Elizabeth Cato
Greg Skipper
May 6, 2008
Many memories of Jim:
Circa 1968: On a lark riding around in his blue VW bus one day, I was pining about how much I missed my girlfriend in Colorado, and Jim just said, "Can you think of any reason we shouldn't just drive out there so you can see her?" and without any preparation we drove day and night until we got there. We had fun, all along the way too, playing music, talking to people in truck stops, etc... When I was around Jim it seemed like "the sky was the limit."
Circa 1970: Jim told me he was going to England to make music. He gave me his VW bus. Wow was he exited. Me too for him. He never lacked enthusiasm and joy in living, that's for sure. I loved the album he made with Eddie Hinton. To this day I still hum the tune he wrote: "Tus-ca-loo-sa is my home." That album deserved to make it big. I still don't know why it didn't. Maybe it will. He was the best musician I ever knew.
Circa 1980: Jim was finishing his pulmonary training and decided he wanted to come join me and form a group medical practice in Oregon. One of the best memories of my life is having a picnic with Jim and Cynthia on Bald Peak overlooking the Cascades, Mt Hood, Mt St Helens, & Ranier. It was a gorgeous spring day. We sat on a blanket and ate watermelon and watched my two year old son chase our dog, "Buck," around. We had lots of fun those years practicing together in Oregon. I guess I thought those days would never end.
Circa 1995: Jim and I both went through difficult times over the years and he'd call and tell me a new joke or play me some music over the phone. It always cheered me up. He was my best friend for many years.
Circa 2005: We caught up with each other again when I moved back to Alabama. I called him and apologized for hurting him doing something stupid some years before. I asked him to forgive me. He just said "Okay" and played me some of his new gospel music. I visited him and he visited me. He was back in my life and it was wonderful, but there was a great sadness too.
Now: I just can't believe Jim is gone. He came in and out of my life and made things so much richer and better. I'll always love you.
Joe Diamond
May 5, 2008
I never met Jim, but we talked a lot thru emails for many years. The last email I received from Jim was the day before he passed away. It's very hard not to want to include his name in the emails that I now
send out. I will miss him greatly. God Bless You, Jim.
Tony Stallard
May 5, 2008
A poem for the family and friends of Dr. Jim Coleman. Though we never met, we both were left-handed players...he a Tele-me a Strat.
I hear that echo.
'Autumn Falls'
Autumn falls
too quickly out of reach,
a season as a falling star
in the universe of a year.
Just yesterday, I realized
fall was near,
was here,
almost all gone…then so.
There was once a time,
when I longed
to drift in the wind.
There is so little time to wonder.
In the fall, it is all so vast. This is final,
the resting place for all the colors of the year,
just before it all passes away,
just before the dawn of winter.
Sprinkles of snow falling in the night
…notes from God.
Pieces of a life upon each written.
An other’s voice…a snowflake speaks
Canvas,
white as starched linen
…sheets upon earth’s bed
beneath where I too will rest.
This is the last season.
At last, I think
of all the others, others past
so sweet upon a memory passing.
A scent
as if it were
a hint
of eternity.
-Tony Stallard, October 2004
musician-writer
Jack Grochmal
April 30, 2008
I know in my heart there's a special place in heaven for you Dr.Coleman.
Emily Coleman Moore
April 29, 2008
As Jim's sister I would like to thank everyone who has signed Jim's Guest Book. Each entry has been a great comfort to Jim's mother and me and we appreciate your sharing your memories of Jim with us.
Chuck Leavell
April 29, 2008
Jim Coleman was a hero of mine. We grew up together in Tuscaloosa and while he was a couple of years older than me, we became friends. He was in the band the Gents, I was in a younger band, The Misfitz. The Gents played the YMCA on Saturday nights for the older kids while we played on Friday nights for the slightly younger crowds. Jim's guitar playing and arranging skills amazed and captivated me. While I must admit to being a bit intimidated by his talents...I eventually made friends with him and he helped and encouraged me to work to be a better musician. Jim also helped me to buy my first guitar...and I remember he also had a keyboard...a Farfisa Organ...that he would occasionally play. As I had learned to play piano from my mother, I bought one, too...and wound up gravitating more towards piano and keyboards in my musical career. When Jim took on his medical studies we lost touch a bit...but re-connected a few short years later and re-kindled our friendship. I visited him as often as possible when I was called to do recording session work up in Nashville....and we had many fun times together. Jim came to a few Rolling Stones concerts with me...both in the U.S. and abroad. He also visited our Tree Farm, Charlane Plantation, here in Georgia. I wound up playing on several of Jim's own projects at his request, and enjoyed every note I played with him. I was constantly amazed by his genius...both as a Doctor and as a songwriter, arranger and musician. But even more than that, I was grateful for his warm, wonderful and loyal friendship. It's hard for me...and I'm sure for everyone that knew him...to imagine a world without Jim in it. But for all of us...how grateful we are to have known such a fine and talented man. Heaven has gained a great healer and a great player. And Jim's legacy will live on and will never be forgotten by us that were fortunate enough to hear him play, to work with him, to be healed or comforted by him or to call him a friend. My love to Lauren, Miss Addie, Clay and all his family. Bless you Doc...the world is a better place because you were in it.
L ROBINSON
April 29, 2008
DR. COLEMAN WAS A GREAT PHYSICAIN AND EXCELLENT
GUITAR PLAYER - I LOVE COMING TO HIS OFC AND HEARING HIS MUSIC COME THRU THE OFC.MADE THINGS IN OFC RELAXING AND NOT STRESSFUL. HE WILL BE DEEPING MISSED BY MY FAMILY.AND HOS SMILE .. L ROBINSON
Darryl Dybka
April 28, 2008
Jim and I were musician friends. He amazed me how he would live in two worlds at the same time, in the world of medicine and then in music and back again in a second! I enjoyed his enthusiasm and his friendship.
I miss him! Jam on Dr. Coleman!
Courtney Keene
April 28, 2008
Dr. Jim was a true friend to everyone lucky enough to be in his life. I will miss his hot pink shirts, boundless energy, kind advice, and limitless intelligence. He was a great honest man and I will miss him very much.
Wally Wilson
April 28, 2008
THERE WILL BE A MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR DR. COLEMAN AT THE AMERICAN FEDERATION OF MUSICIANS LOCAL 257.
The service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6th. All are welcome to come and share memories of this wonderful man.
AZELL FUTRELL
April 28, 2008
I,WAS A PATIENT OF DR.COLEMAN;S FOR MANY YEARS.HE WAS A WONDERFUL MAN.I AM GOING TO MISS HIM.AND HIS BEAUTIFUL MUSIC
SO NOW WE ,SAY GOODBYE AND PLAY ON -PLAY ON MY FRIEND.
LEE ROBINSON
April 28, 2008
R.LEE ROBINSON AND ALEXANDRIA SIMMONS AND BETTY WEATHERHOLT
YOU WILL BE DEEPING MISS AND WE ENJOYED HAVING AS ARE PHYSICAIN
AND WE WILL KEEP YOUR FAMILY IN PRAYER.. HE WILL GET TO SING WITH CHAT AGAIN.
t dilbeck
April 26, 2008
Ah, Jim, more magic gone – Tippy, Eddie, Rodney, Joe, and now you.
The list just seems to keep growing and it is difficult to comprehend, and even more difficult to accept. It seems only yesterday we were riding down Queen City. There is no justice, no, there is none. You will forever be in my heart and in my mind and in my memories and just as the world was a much happier place when there were Beatles in it, it is a much sadder place without you in it. Please give my regards to the angels and play on. You will be sorely missed.
kim sherman
April 25, 2008
Doc,
it won't be the same at the shop, now that you won't be stopping by to play us a tune and tell us your myriad stories. we'll miss you...God bless and God Speed.
Debra Simms
April 25, 2008
Dr. Coleman was my doctor. I will never forget being in the waiting room and hearing the most beautiful guitar playing, sounded like Chet Adkins. I asked the nurse, who is that? She said, your doctor. I was pleased and amazed at such wonderful talent. He showed me his songs that he had written and gave me his album of a tribute to Chet Adkins. He was a fine doctor, I always enjoyed seeing him, He was always uplifting and sooo talented. What a wonderful man, he will be missed by all...
T.G. Engel
April 25, 2008
Jim, we had our ups and downs but you were a good friend to me when I was going through a difficult time. Everything worked out well for me. I wish we could have spoken again.
Betty Breslin
April 25, 2008
Ah Jim, my friend, what is this? Some magic slight of hand that has you here one minute and gone the next? Guess gone is not the word because I'm still talking to you but now I don't have to keep interrupting to get a word in edgewise. And gone is not the word because you are stuck in my heart and that's forever.
What did those angels think, I wonder, when you came strolling in with all your left-handed, guitar picking, glory singing, trash talking contradictions?
They are probably singing Gospel Train... and thinking how lucky they are to have you. I know we were.
Love,
Betty
Tim Morey
April 25, 2008
I first met Jim in 1996 in a guitar store. It started a friendship in which, for a few lousy guitar lessons, he gave me more than I could ever hope to repay. I am going to miss my good friend. Rest in peace, Dr. Jim. You might not have known it, but you gave me a few lessons too.
K. Denise Burton
April 25, 2008
Not many people touch the lives of others the way James Coleman has over the past years. His ability the be a friend and a healer went hand in hand with his love of life, music and the those who were fortunate enough to his friends, patients and fellow musicians. The rhythm of life is so like the rhythm of music which can full, soft and lilting. So we say our farewell to Jim listening to the full, soft and lilting strains that made up the music of life that was James "Jim" Coleman.
David Golightly
April 24, 2008
It is with deep sadness that we must say goodbye to Jim. His heart and his music will resound forever.
David K. Golightly
Mary Berger
April 24, 2008
I was a patient of Dr. Coleman's years ago, he was very nice to me and a caring doctor. My condolences to his family.
Lisa Huskey
April 24, 2008
Jim Coleman was there when my husband was dying, when my son needed help and for me when I needed a damn good Dr.
Jim, I will miss you terribly. You are joining a heavenly band, and Roy is there ready to pick bass along with your guitar.
I love and miss you.
Lisa
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