James Allen Sexton, 57, of Barrett went home to be with his Lord Monday, Feb. 25, 2008. James was born Nov. 17, 1950, in Madison, and was the eldest son of the late Kelly Allen and Betty Jo Sexton and was a lifelong resident of Boone County. He was a 1968 graduate of Van High School and was married to his beloved Susan on June 27, 1970. He was a retired coal miner of 20 years from Eastern Associated Coal Corporation. James earned a bachelor's degree in education from Concord College, a master's degree from Salem University and was a retired Boone County schoolteacher of 17 years. He was also the proud assistant coach of the Van High School baseball team for 20 years. James was a member of the Barrett Church of the Nazarene and a longtime member of the Wharton Barrett Volunteer Fire Department. He greatly enjoyed the outdoors, spending time with his many friends, studying the Bible and enjoying life with his family. James was passionate about teaching, coaching and influencing the youth of his community. His life-strength was found in Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. He had a full and rich life and will be sadly missed by all who had the opportunity to know him. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 37 years, Barbara Susan Sexton; three children, Gene Allen Sexton and his wife, Alisha, of Williamstown, William Edward Sexton and Jennifer Lynn Sexton, both of Rock Hill, S.C.; three granddaughters, Emilie Blaire Sexton of Barrett, and Elizabeth Trannis and Lauren Alisha Sexton of Williamstown; a brother, Jerry Paul Sexton and his wife, Marilyn, of Barrett; a sister, Sheila Kay Worrell and her husband, Kyle, of Sumter, S.C.; and a nephew, David Allen Worrell of Sumter, S.C. Funeral service was 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, at Handley Funeral Home, Danville, with Pastor Howard Sparks officiating. Burial followed in Memory Gardens, Madison. You may express your condolences to the family at www.handleyfh.com.