A life of service remembered: Jim Coles farewelled at 95

Mr Coles was a much-loved character at RangeCare for nearly three decades.

Jim Coles, one of the Blackall Range’s most devoted community volunteers and a man widely admired for his kindness, humour and steadiness of spirit, has died aged 95.

Mr Coles was a cornerstone of RangeCare for nearly three decades, helping shape the organisation from its earliest days. He began volunteering in 1993 as part of a small founding group that raised the funds and community support needed to build the Flaxton facility.

In later years he became a familiar face at the Mapleton Op Shop, where customers often visited as much for a chat with Jim as for the bargains. In 2021, at age 91, he was awarded Life Membership – an honour that moved him deeply.

“I’m proud of what this place has done and I know the work that’s been put into it,” he said at the time.

“I still like to meet people. People are good for me.” His commitment never waned.

He served 14 years on RangeCare’s Management Committee, including three as Vice President, and was named Senior Citizen of the Year at the 2022 Sunshine Coast Australia Day Awards for his extraordinary contribution.

Colleagues described him as energetic, generous and unwavering in his desire to help others. RangeCare volunteer coordinator Cara Doherty once said Jim was “a huge inspiration”, noting his 27 years of continuous service and the enthusiasm he brought to every task.

Mr Coles died late last month. His daughter Tracey said anyone who knew her father would be welcome to attend his funeral. A service to honour Jim’s life will be held Tuesday December 9 at 11am, Mapleton Cemetery, 181 Delicia Road.

A reception will follow from 12pm to 2pm at Mapleton Community Hall, 31 Obi Obi Road.

No flowers, please. Donations in Jim’s memory may be made to Médecins Sans Frontières or St Vincent de Paul. The Coles family welcomes all who wish to pay their respects.