James Rollin Channell

Longtime teacher and coach at Parkwood High School, James Rollin Channell, passed away on Tuesday, February 9th. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Sue, and his two sons, Dean and Jim. Rollin was a dedicated grandfather to his eight grandchildren. Dean and his wife, Kathy, have four children, Jesse, Audrey, Amelia, and Grace. Jim and his wife, Pam, have four children, Edie, Kenneth, Kady and Susie. “Papa” was a big influence in all of their lives. Recently, one granddaughter, Amelia, asked Papa to list the things that made him successful in life. This is what he wrote. 1. I have strived to be a better person since joining the church as a teenager. 2. I believe in God, in attending church, in prayer, and in tithing. 3. Along the way, I’ve learned several things: to be kind, respectful, honest, forgiving, and more sympathetic. 4. I’ve always worked hard to achieve my goals. Very early, I learned that a good work ethic is necessary in becoming successful. 5. I always looked forward, everyday, to going to work. The students invigorated me and made me a better teacher and a better person. 6. Coaching gave me a sense of pride. I enjoyed seeing my players develop into becoming team players and good citizens. 7. I feel like I’ve made great choices in life - like choosing Sue for my wife. 8. Having two sons definitely gave me a different perspective on life. I became less self-centered, now it was more about them and less about me. Heaven got a “good one.” The family will receive friends Saturday, February 13, 2021 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Gordon Funeral Service 1904 Lancaster Ave Monroe, NC 28112. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Wingate United Methodist Church, 111 Hinson St., Wingate, NC 28174 or Parkwood High School Athletics, 3200 Parkwood School Rd., Monroe, NC 28112 in his honor. Online condolences may be made to www.gordonfuneralservice.com. Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory is caring for the Channell family.