Retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major James Larry Coley entered into eternal rest on Saturday, February 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 8, 1937, he was the cherished son of Robert Coley and Helen Simmons.

James was blessed with a close-knit family, including his siblings, Dorothy Coley Geter, Alphonso Coley (Olga), and Allen Coley. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Helen Coley; his siblings, Robert Coley Jr., William Coley, and Leon Coley; and his sister-in-law, Dolores Coley.

A proud graduate of Burke High School, Class of 1955, James pursued his education at Maryland State College, majoring in Liberal Arts. However, his path took a turn when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in November 1959. On October 13, 1963, he married the love of his life, Norvell Yvonne Joseph, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and faith.

James dedicated 30 years of his life to the U.S. Army, serving with distinction and retiring as a Command Sergeant Major in December 1989. His valor and commitment were exemplified through two tours in Vietnam in 1968 and 1971. His passion for learning led him to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Sangamon State University in December 1983. Following his military retirement, he pursued a career in education, obtaining his Teacher Certification from McNeese State University in 1990. For 20 years, he shaped young minds as a special education teacher with the Calcasieu Parish School Board, serving at Ralph Wilson and John F. Kennedy Elementary Schools until his retirement in 2010.

A devoted community servant, James was a lifetime member of VFW Post 7321, where he served as Quarter Master for three years and as a trustee for two. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and on December 10, 2000, he was ordained as a Deacon by Rev. Kevin E. Donalson, Sr. at New Sunlight Baptist Church. His service to the church was extensive, including roles as a choir member, usher, Trustee Board chairman, and a beloved Sunday School member.

James was a devoted father who instilled in his children the values of dedication, perseverance, and a love for adventure. He created lifelong memories by taking them on Volksmarches, traveling the world, and ensuring their education was a priority. As a grandfather, he was a source of joy and indulgence, often picking up his grandchildren from school and treating them to their favorite delights from McDonalds and milkshakes from Sonic.

James leaves behind a legacy of love through his children: Juana Felton-Taylor (George, Jr.), Jayme Coley, Janet Coley-Woodard (Arthur, Jr.), and James L. Coley II. His grandchildren, Alexis Tizano, Ashlei Arceneaux (Eric), Courtney Jacobs, Rodney N. Felton, Jr., Cameron Coley, Ja'Naya Woodard, and Ailynn Woodard, along with his great-grandchildren, Jessie Louis, Jaedah Louis, and Erionna Norvelle Arceneaux, were his pride and joy.

Cherishing his memory and holding him forever in their hearts are his devoted wife of 61 years, Norvell; his four children; two sons-in-love; seven grandchildren; one grandson-in-love; three great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, adored friends, and all who were blessed to know his kind and gentle spirit.

James Larry Coley's life was a testament to service, love, and faith. He leaves behind a lasting impact on his family, community, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.