Carl James "Jim" Coppenger peacefully passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024.

Jim was born in Long Beach, California on April 28, 1933 to Kathleen Wakefield Coppenger and Clyde Edward Pearo. His stepfather, Carl Jackson Coppenger, moved the family to San Diego where Jim lived for most of his childhood, graduating from Point Loma High School in 1952.  After a brief stint as an electrical lineman, he joined the United States Navy to pursue a career as an aviation mechanic. His first duty station, Cabiness Field, led him to a young Texan beauty that captured his heart, Wanda Janice Reed. They were married May 1, 1953, and began their life together moving often as their family grew, eventually settling in Pensacola, FL, their home of over 50 years.

Jim took tremendous pride in serving his country in times of war and peace. His exemplary performance as an enlisted sailor led to his commissioning as an officer in 1966. Throughout his 22-year naval career, he served two tours of duty in Vietnam and was stationed in multiple shore locations, including San Diego, CA; Jacksonville, FL; Corpus Christi, TX; Pensacola, FL; Whidbey Island, WA; and Albany, GA.  He served on four aircraft carriers, and later taught leadership and naval history at NAS Pensacola School's Command. After retiring as a Lieutenant Commander in 1972, Jim found great success in a second career as a realtor with ERA Old South Properties in Pensacola, establishing and building their Property Management division.

Jim was a faithful Christian, using his gifts in service to the church and various ministries throughout his life.  He had many passions, including the study and teaching of scripture and theology, metal detecting, southern gospel and bluegrass music, old western movies, and traveling with Wanda and their many friends. He was also a very proud father and "Pops" to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Jim is preceded in death by his loving wife of 69 years, Wanda; his parents and step-parents; maternal siblings, Gwen, Jack, and Jeanné; paternal siblings, Skipper, Sharon, and Shirley; and son-in-law, Tom.  He is survived by his children, Debra Drake, Jan Richards, Kathleen Heubach, James Coppenger (Joy) and Carol Whittington (Hunter); 12 grandchildren, Jody Richards, James Drake, Jason Richards, Cindi Lacey, Beau Heubach, Brett Heubach, Jordan Richards, Ben Coppenger, Sam Coppenger, Taylor Whittington, Ashlyn Whittington, and Jackson Whittington; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Jim found great purpose in caring for Wanda in the last few years of her life. After her passing, he became an active resident at the Blake of Pensacola where he served as a leader in many capacities, including welcoming new residents and leading bible studies. Special friendships within the Blake community brought Jim much joy in his final days.

Jim often shared stories from his past with others as a testament to his favorite scripture, Isiah 30:21, which proclaims "Your ears shall hear a word behind you saying, 'This is the way, walk in it.'" He believed that his many blessings came from listening to and obeying the still voice of the Holy Spirit, trusting God's will for him through every season of his life.

Visitation will be held Monday, September 9, 2024, at 9:00am until the funeral service begins at 10:00am at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, 2276 Airport Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32504, with Dr. Stan Lewis officiating. Interment will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery.

Jim was a founding board member for the Men's Barn Meeting, Inc., a position he held for over 20 years.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to this special ministry (5800 Pilgram Train West, Molino, FL 32577).

The Coppenger family extends a heartfelt thank you to the compassionate caregivers of the Blake of Pensacola and VITAS Hospice.