James Virgil Rowe

James Virgil Rowe, 72, of Forest Hills, KY passed away Friday, September 3, 2021 at the Pikeville Medical Center.  Born October 13, 1948 at Toler, KY, he was the son of the late Homer and Gladys Lockhart Rowe. 

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Dorsey Rowe. 

James Virgil was a graduate of Belfry High School and a disabled employee of the N&W Railroad.  He dedicated his life to coaching area youth.  He was a former coach at the former Varney Grade School and he served as the defensive lineman coach for the Belfry High School Pirates football team from 1985 to 2018.  He was a member of the Elks Lodge and the Hardy Methodist Church. 

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Marydea (McCoy) Rowe of Forest Hills, KY, his daughters, Tammy (Sam) Yates of Wise, VA and Tonia (Travis) Lequire of Pinsonfork, KY, one brother, Curtis Rowe of Lexington, KY, his grandchildren, Halie (Jake) Maynard of Pinsonfork, KY, Chasidy (Matt Belcher) Lequire of Pinsonfork, KY, and Mason Hall of Wise, VA.  Also surviving are the numerous athletes he coached over the years, his fellow coaches, and a host of friends.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at 11:00 am at the Belfry High School Auditorium with Rev. Geoff Tackett officiating.  Burial will follow in the Mt. View Memory Gardens at Huddy, KY with Belfry High School athletes serving as active pallbearers.  Honorary pallbearers will be Belfry High School football coaches and former players. 

Visitation will be after 6:00 pm Tuesday evening at the Belfry High School Auditorium.

Due to COVID19, masks are recommended.

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