James Robert "Bob" Coleman

James Robert "Bob" Coleman of Paris, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, surrounded by his family. He leaves behind a legacy defined by love, laughter, and an unwavering devotion to those he held dear.

Born on July 10, 1934, in Paris, Texas, Bob was the son of Jack Jennings Coleman and Maudell Rue Coleman. A proud 1951 graduate of Paris High School, he went on to attend Texas A&M University, earning his degree in Animal Husbandry in 1955. Following graduation, Bob honorably served his country in the United States Army for two years, with assignments taking him across Europe and the Northwestern United States.

On November 7, 1959, Bob married the love of his life, Joycelyn Hicks. Together, they built a 66-year marriage anchored in faith, family, and a legendary sense of humor. Bob famously delighted in their spirited banter, often joking, "I always had to put up with Joyce, but that's what you get when you marry an 18-year-old girl."

Bob's career was marked by hard work and versatility. After returning to Paris to farm cotton, he moved into ranch management, overseeing large cattle operations in Lamar County and Louisiana. He eventually returned home to Paris for a long and respected career at Campbell Soup Company, where he served as the Manager of Plant Services until his retirement in 1995. He was also a faithful, long-time member of the First United Methodist Church. He spent years coaching Little League Optimist Baseball and volunteering at the local Downtown Food Pantry.

In his retirement, Bob embraced the simple pleasures of life. A masterful crappie fisherman, Bob's greatest joy on the water was the company he kept. He was a natural mentor who delighted in taking others along, sharing his favorite spots, and his love for the sport with anyone eager to learn. Over the years, Bob spent countless hours fishing with his family and friends, especially his "special" fishing partners, Tommy Duncan and Tommy Felty.

Whether he was sipping from his signature jelly jar, enjoying a bowl of ice cream, watching Wheel of Fortune, or college softball, Bob was happiest when surrounded by family. He was a master storyteller whose warmth and wit could fill any room.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; his sons, Robert (Bob) Coleman and wife Deb, and Bill Coleman and wife Carla. "PePaw" was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by Robert's children: Jimmy Coleman; Jaci Coleman and daughter Paisley; Jacob Coleman; Christina Harris and sons Cairo and Cyrus; and Kasaundra Mascarenaz. He is also survived by Bill's children: Chase Coleman (Leia) and children Hayes, Landry, and Cooper; Nate Coleman (Hannah) and children Addison, Rilen, and Harper; and Mallie Jenkins (Erik) and children Brooks Coleman Jones, Ken, Torrin, and Bodhi.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jack Rue Coleman; brothers-in-law, Gerald Hicks, Jerry Hicks, Benny Hicks, and Billy Hicks; and sisters-in-law, Pat Coleman, Sara Hicks Stogner, and Janette Hicks Stone. He is survived by brother-in-law, Denton Stogner and sisters-in-law, Judy Hicks and Sue Hicks.

Pallbearers will be Chase Coleman, Nate Coleman, Mallie Jenkins, Jacob Coleman, Christina Harris, and Kasaundra Mascarenaz. Honorary pallbearers include Tommy Felty, John Manago, Royce Stogner, and Gerri Blackshear.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM Monday, March 23, 2026 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Kathryn Strempke officiating. Family will receive friends one hour prior to service at the church.

A burial will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Paris, Texas, following the service.

Bob will be remembered for his steadfast love, sharp humor, and the kindness he extended to his community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched. The family is also very thankful for the services of Signature Hospice, and care-givers Betty Robinson and Audrey Bills. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Paris.