Deacon James Lewis Douglas Sr., age 95, of Colcord, West Virginia, was born on February 8, 1930, and peacefully went home to be with the Lord on January 17, 2026.
James was a devoted servant of God who always placed Him first in his life. He was a retired coal miner and a faithful teacher of the Word, serving at Clearfork Worship Center where he dedicated his life to ministry and guiding others in their faith. His walk with God was evident in his actions, wisdom, and the love he shared with everyone he encountered.
James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bernice Douglas, whom he loved deeply and faithfully. They were married in 1959 and shared 53 years of marriage until her passing in 2012, building a life rooted in love, faith, and family.
Known as the best dad in the world, a title earned through his deep love and unwavering devotion to his children, family meant everything to James. His legacy continues through the many generations blessed to call him theirs.
James was the proud father of four children. He is survived by his daughters, Lisa (Jim) Estep and Kimberly (Greg) Scarbro. He was preceded in death by his son, James (Jeannie) Douglas II, and his daughter, Shawna Douglas Dunbar.
A loving grandfather to nine grandchildren, he was a cherished great-grandfather to twenty-six great-grandchildren and a blessed great-great-grandfather to seven great-great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by two great-grandchildren, who remain forever in the hearts of the family.
As one of fifteen siblings, he is survived by two brothers and was preceded in death by thirteen siblings.
Outside of his ministry and family, James found joy in the simple blessings of life. He loved to fish, hunt, and garden, taking pride in working the land and appreciating God’s creation. Gardening brought him peace and served as another way he expressed gratitude for the life God blessed him with.
A celebration of life service will be held in honor of his legacy at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, January 22, 2026 at Sycamore Free Pentecostal Church with Jerry Tyree and Scotty Stanley serving as speakers. Friends may visit with the family from 12:00 p.m. until service time.
Deacon James Lewis Douglas Sr. will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored for his faith, family, and lifelong service to God.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
800 S Oakwood Ave, Beckley, WV 25801

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