James “Jimm” Harrison Loope, 83, of Barboursville, WV was called home to be with The Lord on Friday, May 1, 2026. Born on February 22, 1943, in Salem, VA to Luther Jackson Loope and Thelma Nadine Guthrie Loope, Jimm grew up in the Catawba Valley with his parents and 4 siblings. He attended Andrew Lewis High School in the early 1960’s and then went into training and apprenticeship to become a Journeyman in three different trades.

He married his wife, Lillian “Littie” Ellen Loope, on June 11, 1970. Jimm and Littie met at the Huntington Hospital in West Virgina, where he refined his culinary skills as the head of dietary services, and the rest is history. They began their married life together in Lavalette, WV, where they raised their twin daughters, Charlotte and Ellen.

Jimm became a Journeyman Millwright, Journeyman Machinist, and Certified Welder, working for Sturm Machines, The Radford Arsenal & Ammunition Plant, and Volvo Trucks North America, among other industrial manufacturers, during his career. Jimm was a dedicated and hard worker, providing for his family. He was a skilled tradesman, working and tinkering even after retirement.

Beyond his career, Jimm enjoyed being in the outdoors, and trout fishing was his favorite pastime. Whether it was fishing, the occasional hunt, or just visiting wildlife, he would stay out until “dark thirty”, enjoying time in nature and embracing God’s creation. Jimm enjoyed trekking through the woods to find quaint streams and rivers, and fishing for trout. Fishing is a hobby he shared with all his family, and one of his favorite ways to spend the day.

When not in the woods or casting a line, Jimm would be found with his family. He enjoyed card games around the kitchen table, winning many games of 500 Rummy and Hand & Foot. He ensured everyone was cared for and well-fed, spending time in the kitchen preparing his special recipes.

In 2000, Jimm became a grandfather, known as “Jimmpa” from that day on. He spent time with his two grandchildren, Belle and Derek, teaching them to fish, to cook, and to play cards. He shared all his interests, hobbies, stories, and recipes with his grandchildren, and was the best grandfather any kid would hope for.

Jimm was preceded in death by his father and mother. Remaining to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy are his wife, Littie Loope, his daughters Ellen Loope and Charlotte Loope Gates (husband- Joseph Gates), his grandchildren, Belle Gates and Derek Gates, his sisters, Louessie Ramsey (husband- Bud A Ramsey, deceased) and Nancy Proffitt (husband Jack Proffitt, deceased), and his brothers William Loope (wife- Margie Loope) and John Loope (wife- Judy Loope), as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jimm lived a full life, loved, treasured, and admired by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Private family services honoring his life and memory will be held at Forest Memorial Park in Milton, and Jimm will be laid to rest on May 6, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jimm’s honor at a charity of choice, or to Appalachia Service Project. Please leave a condolence for Jimm’s family on his guestbook.