James Earl Coates, 85, of Hayes, entered into rest on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014.

He was born Feb. 20, 1929 to Joseph Earl and Carrie H. Coates. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and retired from the James River Reserve Fleet as an electrician after 38 years of service.

James Earl was a fine Christian gentleman and life long, devoted member of Union Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon for more than 35 years.

He was known for being the lawn mower repairman on the Guinea Circle. He was called upon day and night to repair lawn mowers and he never could say no. He was a big Dale Earnhart NASCAR fan and enjoyed going to the Richmond races with his son-in-law. James Earl was kind and gentle, loved cats, his pug, Love and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend for life.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Betty Paige Coates; daughter, Sandra Mitchem and husband Rusty; grandchildren, Angela Smith and husband Corey and James Mitchem, and many friends.

Funeral services conducted by the Rev. Dr. Rodney Autry and the Rev. Richard Whiteheart were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014 at Union Baptist Church. Interment with military honors followed in Rosewell Memorial Garden Cemetery. The family received friends prior to the service on Wednesday at the church from 12:30-2 p.m.

In memory of James Earl, gifts may be given to Union Baptist Church, General Fund, 9254 Guinea Road, Hayes, Va. 23072.

Arrangements by Hogg Funeral Home and Crematory, Gloucester Point.