Fr. James Jackson Coleman Jr.

FATHER JAMES JACKSON COLEMAN JR. OBITUARY

Father James Jackson Coleman Jr., beloved priest, family member, and friend, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 78. His life was marked by an unwavering dedication to others, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and compassion that touched countless lives.

Born as the second of six children into a large Catholic family, Father Jim’s faith journey began early, attending Saint Joseph’s grade school and Mount Angel Seminary for high school and college. His academic journey continued at the Canisianum and University of Innsbruck in Innsbruck, Austria, where he earned his Master of Divinity. On June 23, 1973, he was ordained at St. Joseph Parish in Salem, alongside his good friend and classmate, Monsignor Hunegar. Fluent in both German and Spanish, Father Jim’s linguistic skills would play a vital role throughout his diverse ministry. For much of the 1970s and 80s, he served in the Portland metro area, particularly at his beloved St. Andrew parish. His calling then took him abroad, where he worked with the Society of St. James in Bolivia and Ecuador, dedicating 15 years of his life to mission work in South America. In the 1990s, Father Jim served as Rector at Seminaria Mayor San Lorenzo in Santa Cruz, Bolivia.

Father Jim often divided his ministry into thirds: the early years spent serving urban parishes in Portland and briefly in New York City; his mission work with the Society of St. James; and his return to serve the Willamette Valley, including parishes in Salem, Yamhill-Carlton, and Woodburn, with brief assignments in Southern Oregon. Upon his return to the Valley, he continued to serve with humility and devotion wherever he was needed.

A familiar presence among his peers in the Archdiocese, Father Jim was known for his consistent attendance at events where priests gathered. Whether for retreats, convocations, the Chrism Mass, or special Masses marking anniversaries or funerals, he was always there, offering support, concelebrating, and faithfully serving. His dedication extended beyond these events, as he quietly visited his brother priests in their later years, providing comfort to those who were ill or frail.

Family was central to Father Jim’s life. As a youth, he famously set a record for picking 28 crates of strawberries in a single day, an impressive feat that highlighted his hardworking nature. While his siblings spent their earnings on candy, Father Jim used his to buy his mother a new couch. To his siblings, nieces, and nephews, he was always “Jimmy” generous with his time, energy, and love. As one of over 50 first cousins, Father Jim maintained strong bonds with his extended family, ensuring their shared history and memories were preserved. He was a loving brother and a devoted family historian. His affection for his relatives extended internationally; he had plans to travel with his siblings to Switzerland in June to visit their Swiss cousins.

Even in retirement, Father Jim’s generosity remained unchanged. He took great joy in gleaning leftover crops from local farms, collecting fruits and vegetables to share with friends and those in need. His car, often filled with his harvest, was a testament to his giving spirit. Known for his many interests, Father Jim enjoyed playing golf—humorously noting that his game improved the less he played. He was also passionate about opera, Blazers basketball, World Cup soccer, and baseball. He enjoyed tending to the vegetable garden at Phil and Sue Coleman’s farm. His love for the Oregon coast and the Willamette National Forest, especially the peaceful setting of Pamelia Creek, brought him great joy. He remained active and even played basketball into his 60s. His younger brothers struggled to beat him in games—though some suggested foul issues. His competitive nature was strong.

He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. Now at peace with Jesus, Father Jim’s legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to inspire all of us.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Edwards in Keizer on May 22, 2025, at 10:30 AM, followed by a reception. Burial will take place at St. Paul Cemetery, with a late lunch to follow in St. Paul. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Father Jim’s memory to St. Paul Cemetery, the Missionary Society of St. James the Apostle, or a Catholic charity of choice.

Father Jim is survived by his sisters Janet Bruno (Dick) and Mary Lou Upham (Ken); his brothers Mike (Cheryl), Dave, and Tim (Tina); as well as his six surviving nephews and six grand-nieces and nephews.

We will miss him dearly.