James Wilfred Coleman

James Wilfred Coleman was born on July 12, 1939, in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, to James Henry Coleman and Addie Mae Coleman. When his family moved to Washington, DC, young James accepted Christ at an early age, a decision that would guide him throughout his life. His family endearingly nicknamed him "Dukey" and that nickname has followed him to adulthood.
At Roosevelt High School in Washington, DC, James didn't just go through the motions-he showed up, worked hard, and served as a cadet, learning the discipline and dedication that would serve him throughout his life. It was in DC where fate smiled upon him, and he met Yvette Wallace. They married in 1958, and together they welcomed three beautiful daughters into the world: Michele, Renee, and Rhonda.
James found his spiritual home at Gethsemane Baptist Church, where he wasn't content to just warm a pew. He was a member of the tribe Levi. For years, he served as the church's Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, managing the finances with the same careful attention he gave everything else in life.
Life had more chapters in store for James. He met Gloria Blake, and for 25 wonderful years, they built a life together until her passing in 2000. Their union brought three more blessings: Tara, Lamont, and Brian.
For nearly four decades, James went to work at the Pentagon, not just punching a clock but making a real difference. As a civilian Director of Finance/Accounting and Comptroller for the Air Force Department of Defense, he designed the electronic financial system that the entire Department of Defense would use. Think about that his work touched every corner of our nation's defense operations. When he retired after 39 years as a GS-14, he left behind a legacy of innovation and excellence that few could match. Beyond his remarkable professional achievements, James was a passionate Washington Redskins fan who held season tickets for many years and never hesitated to show his team pride. He enjoyed the thrill of horse racing at Rosecroft Raceway and, following in the footsteps of his family's culinary tradition, loved hosting holiday gatherings where he prepared memorable feasts for family and friends. Known for his wonderful sense of humor and legendary "dad jokes," James found his greatest joy in celebrating the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren.
James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria Ann Coleman; his parents, James Henry Coleman and Addie Mae Coleman; his sister, Helen C. Holloway; and his cherished son, Brian Davon Coleman.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted daughters, Dr. Michele Coleman, Renee Coleman, Rhonda Coleman, and Tara Gilbert (Gregory); his son, James Lamont Coleman; seven grandchildren, Marqui, Aaron, Leah, Lequire (Tre), Will (Jahleel), Ryan, and Jaday; three great-grandchildren, Royal, Raqui, and Ryze; one niece, Jacqueline Holloway-Paris; one nephew, Dwayne Holloway (Kimberly); his brother-in-law, Andrew Holloway; his beloved in-laws, Gayle Sykes, Kathy Pender (Clyde), Joseph Blakes (Lucy), and Carol Butler; his godson, Jason Hancock and Auri Cohn, longtime friend; and a host of other relatives, friends, and church family.
James Wilfred Coleman lived a life of purpose, service, and love. His legacy of faith, dedication to family and country, and the joy he brought to others will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
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