James Douglas Coleman

JAMES DOUGLAS COLEMAN was born on June 24, 1948, in Norlina, North Carolina, to Alfred and Esther Hunter Coleman. After a courageous battle with illness, Douglas passed away on December 8, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication. Douglas's educational journey began at Norlina Elementary and Wise Elementary, culminating in his graduation from North Warren High School. It was during these formative years that his passion for music flourished, singing as a bass in the North Warren Concert Choir. He also excelled in sports, especially basketball, where he played as a forward and became a key member of his high school team. After high school Douglas relocated to Boston, Massachusetts, spending many years working as a supervisor for Texaco Corporation. While in Boston, he took up boxing as a new athletic pursuit. Later, he moved to New Jersey, continuing his career with Texaco. In 1982, Douglas moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where he met Joyce Garmon. She became the love of his life and they married in 1990. Douglas was lovingly called “Papa” by family and friends, even those who just met him. He found employment at Georgia Crown Distributing Company and remained there until his retirement. Throughout his life, he continued to nurture his love for singing and chess. Douglas's spiritual journey began early, as he devoted himself to the Lord and was an active member of First Baptist Church Norlina. After moving to Atlanta, he joined Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, where his passion for studying scripture grew. Like the Bereans in the Bible, Douglas was committed to diligently searching for biblical truths and understanding the word of God. Douglas was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Coleman; their children Erica Garmon of Stone Mountain, GA; Tamara St. Germaine (Brian) of Austin, TX; mother-in-law Doris Hamilton of Decatur, GA; siblings Jean-Claude Lambot (Edith) of Savy, France; Arnett Coleman (Ruth) of Bahama, NC; Corlis McCormick (David) of Conyers, GA; Sandra Williams (Valton) of Warrenton, NC; Karen McClinic (Mike) of Conyers, GA; Charles Coleman (Oita) of Apex, NC; as well as numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will always cherish his memory. Services entrusted to Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, 4347 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur, GA 30034.

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James Douglas Coleman

June 24, 1948 - December 8, 2025