James Donald Coffman

James Donald Coffman, 96, of Sullivan, MO, affectionately known as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2024, at Sunset Health Care Center in Union, MO. Born on February 5, 1928, in Mountain Grove, MO, to James W. and Minnie (Raney) Coffman, Jim's life was a testament to his generous spirit, faith-filled heart, and loving nature.

Jim grew up in the close-knit community of Mountain Grove, where he attended local schools and graduated from Mountain Grove High School with the class of 1946. Shortly after graduation, Jim answered the call of duty and entered the US Navy, serving his country with honor at the tail end of World War II. Upon his honorable discharge, he embarked on an adventure across the country with friends, taking on various jobs and embracing the spirit of the post-war era.

It was during this time of exploration and hard work that Jim met the love of his life, Shirley Henry. The two married on December 11, 1950, and their loving partnership brought four wonderful children into the world: Deborah, Samuel, Mary, and Sally. The family first made their home in Lebanon, MO, before moving to St. Louis. Eventually, they returned to Mountain Grove and then settled in Sullivan in 1965, where they would plant deep roots and create a lifetime of memories.

Jim's career was as varied as it was fulfilling. He began as a machinist in St. Louis and later worked at Carden Machine Shop in Sullivan, and also in local mines. His final professional chapter was spent repairing small engines, a skill he mastered with the same precision and care he applied to all his endeavors. In 1993, at the age of 65, Jim embraced retirement, looking forward to more time with his beloved family and community.  Sadly, Shirley passed away in 2002.

A man of deep faith, Jim was a chartered member of Rock Chapel Freewill Baptist Church of Norwood, MO, and later a devoted member of Temple Baptist Church. His involvement with the church went beyond mere attendance; he was an active participant, teaching Sunday School and engaging in the church's Be Active. Live Longer. (BALL) club activities with Shirley. Together, they found joy in fellowship and service, embodying the values that defined Jim's life.

Jim's interests were as rich and varied as his life. He cherished family gatherings, where his generosity and loving nature were always on full display. A lifelong learner, Jim loved to lose himself in a good book or become captivated by the drama of a baseball or football game. His passion for the old West was evident in his enjoyment of Western novels and films, a genre that captured his imagination and spirit of adventure.

Those who knew Jim will remember him as a man who lived his values every day. His generosity was as boundless as the Iowa skies under which he once farmed. His faith was as solid as the Missouri hills he called home. And his love was as deep and enduring as the roots he planted in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him.

Jim is survived by his beloved children:  Debbie English and husband, Rev. Tony English of Nixa, MO, Sam Coffman and wife, Terry of Sullivan, Mary Roberts and Sally Wilde both of Bourbon, MO; 7 grandchildren:  Jamin English and wife, Hilary of Macks Creek, MO, Laura Wirsig and husband, Chad of Colorado Springs, CO, Ashley Haupt and husband, Pastor Tim Haupt of Nixa, Jeremy Coffman, William Greenlee III both of Sullivan, Andrea Barton and husband, James of Bourbon, and Robert Wilde and wife, Emily of Sullivan; 16 great grandchildren:  Grant, Ethan, Shelby, Jacob, Abby, Ben, Isaac, Susanna, Lexi, Shay, Logan, Harley, Patience, Kaylie, Skyler, & Elijah; two great-great grandsons:  Grayson & Sonny; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, & other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley; a grandson, Jason Coffman; a son-in-law, Jonathan Roberts; his parents, James and Minnie Coffman; and ten siblings:  Lester Coffman, Arvin Coffman, Melvin Coffman, Kenneth Coffman, Nadine Dake, Ethel Mae Owens, Audrey Davis, Doris Coffman, Owen Coffman, and an infant sister.

Services will be 12:00 PM noon, Friday, April 19, 2024, at the Temple Baptist Church in Sullivan with Pastors Scott Perry and Tony English officiating.  Burial will follow at I.O.O.F Memorial Cemetery, Sullivan with full military honors.

Visitation will be 11:00 AM to noon prior to the service at Temple Baptist Church. 

Memorial contributions may be given in Jim’s memory to the Jason Coffman Memorial Fund for the Arts.

Condolences may be shared online with Jim’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.