James Wilbur "Jim" Copley, 83, died February 14, 2018 at his home peacefully with his family by his side.

During his youth, Jim was an accomplished spring board diver, trampolinist, and acrobat. Using these skills, he joined the circus and toured the country entertaining the public.

Afterwards, he joined the US Air Force where he served as a C-130 "Hercules" flight engineer. Jim rose to the rank of Master Sergeant in 12 years, serving as Chief, Standardization and Evaluation of his air mobility unit at Langley Air Force. During his distinguished military career, Jim served three combat tours in the Vietnam Conflict, suffering combat-related illness that ended his career early. During his military career, he married Johanna Copley (ex-wife), the mother of his four children.

After this time, Jim rekindled his passion to entertain people, owning and operating nine different night clubs in the local area. He also was a builder and real estate agent.

Jim is survived by his children, Jeanette Copley (David), Elizabeth Paiva (Ernie), Michael Copley (Susan); two sisters, Norma Stenger, Sharon Adams; four grandchildren, Jacob, Jessica, Kimberly, Alyssa; and six great-grandchildren, Matthew, Christopher, James, Vander, Wyatt, Thatcher. His son James Copley, Jr., predeceased him in 1991.

The family extends special thanks and gratitude to Ms. Jan Gallahan for her enduring love and care-giving support over many years as well as to her children, Jenise, Bubby and Wayne.

Thanks to Bayada Home Health Care and Grace Hospice for their help and support during Mr. Copley's illness.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask for your support with donations to our Veterans and Vietnam charities.

The family will receive friends Sunday from 3:30 – 5:00 pm at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home, 245 S. Armistead Ave, Hampton. A graveside service with military honors will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, February 19, 2018 at Peninsula Memorial Park, Newport News.