James Leroy “Bebop” Junkins, 90, of Hampton, Va., died Feb. 8, 2014.

 

He was a native of Birmingham, Ala., and had lived in Virginia since 1961. Jim lived in Newport News from 1961-1984 at which time he moved to Mobjack (Rainbow’s End) in Mathews County, where his heart remained. He was known for his Halloween parties and love for the community.

 

Jim was a former member of the First UMC, Newport News. In Mobjack, he was a member of Grace-Providence UMC where he served as communion steward. He was an employee of Noland Company for 47 years, working in Birmingham, Memphis, and then in Newport News.

 

A man of close tolerances, if he said it would go, then it would go. Jim was a WWII veteran serving with the 6th Infantry Division in Luzon and New Guinea, and was a recipient of the Soldier’s Medal.

 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Virginia Lewis Clayton Junkins “Jinky.” He is survived by his sons, John M. Junkins (Tristess), Thomas L. Junkins and Scott D. Junkins (Sue); a daughter, Susan J. Waters (Thomas); 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

 

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2014, in Grace-Providence United Methodist Church, Mobjack, Va.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Grace-Providence UM Church, HC 75, P.O. Box 7820, Mobjack, Va. 23056 or to the Mathews Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 723, Mathews, Va. 23109.

 

Foster-Faulkner Funeral Home, Mathews, is in charge of the arrangements.