On Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2015, James Leon Dabney was called to rest by our Lord and Savior and given a new life and eternal home. James was born in Marion on March 17, 1945. He was the third son of Louis D. and Evelyn R. Dabney. James was also the widower of Geraldine Williams Dabney.

James graduated from Virginia State University 1969 and retired from Suffolk Public School system after 30 years of service. There he taught driver education, physical education and coached various sports during his tenure.

He leaves to cherish his memory a brother, Howard R. Dabney; four sister-in-laws, Ella Dabney-Bynum (Edward), Priscilla Williams, Audrey Liverman and Beverly Williams; four brother-in-laws, Haywood Williams, Michael Boone (Susan), Clem Williams and George Caffey; two nieces, Norvis L. Dabney and Donna L. Dabney; nephew, Louis R. Dabney (Unwanna); great-nephew, Kevin L. Dabney Leaven; and a host of other family and friends.

A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015, at Metropolitan Funeral Service Chapel, Portsmouth, at 11 a.m. On Friday, Feb. 6, 2015, a public viewing will begin at 4 p.m. with a wake service to fellow from 7 to 8 p.m. The celebration of life service will be streamed online at www.metropolitanfuneralservice.com.

In lieu of flowers, it is the family’s request that monetary tributes be sent to Virginia State University Foundation — memo Athletic Department, 1 Hayden Drive, Petersburg, VA 23806 in his memory.