James Herbert Suit

James Herbert Suit (Jim) of Leesburg, Virginia passed away peacefully at Viva Senior Living in Berryville, VA on August 15, 2025.

Born in Altavista, Virginia, Jim grew up in Danville, Virginia and lived a long and meaningful life marked by dedication, service and love for family. He always had a deep love of music that would shape his entire life. After graduating from high school, he served in the army during the Korean War era, where he was a proud member of the Army Band at Fort Belvoir, Virginia playing the trombone. His talent and dedication brought joy to fellow soldiers and carried him through 10 years of service.

Following his time in the military, Jim remained in the Washington, D. C. area, where he became a skilled barber and opened a successful barbershop. For many years, his shop served as both a place for haircuts and a hub for friendly conversation.

Even as he built his career, music remained at the heart of his life. Jim served as the minister of music at two different churches, guiding choirs, nurturing musicians and enriching worship with his talent. After a semi-retirement, Jim moved back to Danville for several years. He continued in his love of music there by singing in the local church choir, and later leading Starmont, a beloved swing band in Danville whose performances filled dance halls, nursing homes and the local hospital with the vibrant energy of big-band jazz. As a senior himself, he unselfishly devoted numerous hours volunteering at the Senior Citizen Center.

Jim was married and blessed with two daughters who brought him immense joy throughout his life. He instilled his love of music to his family, which they have passed on to their own children. Later divorced, Jim found love again in a second marriage. Together they shared a rich, rewarding life. He will be remembered for his warmth, quiet strength and steadfast values. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he cherished.

He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Joanne Cross Suit, his daughters Donna Ruhsam (Harry), Denise Dailey (Mike), his step-son John Smoot (Cynthia) and grandchildren, Callie Preston (Dan), Mark Ruhsam (Page), Erin McLenagan, Emily Smoot and Evan Smoot (Kristen). He was preceded in death by his parents, James Garland Suit and Martha Williamson Suit, his seven siblings, Louise Yeatts, Helen Sizer, Ruby Terrell, Pauline Brumfield, Nellie Hunt, Florence Yeatts, Russell Suit, and Lillie McGee Suit (the mother of his daughters)

Jim will be laid to rest with honors at the National Memorial Cemetery at Danville, Virginia on September 5, 2025 at 11:00 a.m..

James Herbert Suit's final chord has been played, but the melody of his life will echo in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at The Loudon County Adult Day Care Center, Viva Senior Living at Berryville, Virginia, and most recently Blue Ridge Hospice for their compassionate care. Donations in Jim's memory may made be made to any of the three caring organizations.