James "Jim" Franklin Coble

James Franklin Coble, 71, of Virginia Beach, Virginia passed away peacefully on Tuesday July 2nd only 5 days shy of his birthday. Jim was a native son of North Carolina having spent his formative years in Winston-Salem. While he eventually earned his phD in Kentucky, his heart belonged to ECU . Jim worked as a professor in Geology for Tidewater Community College for 3 decades. He was much beloved by his students both in his capacity as instructor and as mentor for the Geology Club. The time he spent with students in the Geology Club were the happiest days of his working life, and even 7 years after retirement from the State of Virginia, many students still call him friend. 

 Jim married his longtime friend and partner, Patty McGuire, late in life. After sharing 40 years together, they finally took their wedded vows this year. They shared pets over the time of their relationship. One beloved animal was Charlie the cat, who adored Jim. Jim never thought of himself as a cat person until Charlie came along. Jim also loved Willie the Golden Retriever, and Willie thought of Jim as his "Uncle Jim." Jim and Patty both cared for their elderly parents the past 5 years, and Jim lost his father earlier this year. 

 Jim is survived by his loving wife Patty who will continue to reside in Virginia Beach. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024, in Winston-Salem at 11AM. In lieu of flowers or cards, Jim asks that a donation be made to the Alzheimer's Association in memory of his mother who passed from the disease on Mother's Day almost 10 years ago.