James Henry Bomar

James Henry Bomar, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026 at the age of 97. He was born on August 29, 1929, in Brookneal, Virginia, to the late Henry James Bomar and the late Sadie Henricks Bomar.

James met the love of his life, Arlene Nuckoles Bomar in 1952. They were married in 1953 after James returned from the Navy and were together for 63 years until her passing on the same day as James exactly 10 years earlier.

Throughout his life, James was known for his kindness, generosity, strength, humor and devotion to his family. He dedicated himself to his family, which included all of the Lynchburg Fire Department, and took great pride in the lives and accomplishments of those he loved. He was a man who could always be counted on, offering guidance, encouragement, and a helping hand whenever it was needed.

James served as a firefighter, training officer, and Commander III or Deputy Chief, with the Lynchburg Fire Department. He was instrumental in bringing paid EMS services to the City of Lynchburg. He assisted in establishing and training multiple EMS agencies, both paid and volunteer in surrounding counties to the city. He was respected for his vision, wisdom, intelligence, dedication, and common sense approach to all things. Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing, gardening, and making quilts, but his greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends.

Those who knew James will remember him for his humor, wit, fierce love of family, stories, laughter, and the love he so freely gave to others. His presence brought comfort and strength to those around him, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

In addition to his loving wife, Arlene he was preceded in death by three sons David “Mike” Michael Bomar, Stuart Allen Bomar and Russell James Bomar as well as eight brothers and sisters.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Ann Bomar Wade and husband Michael as well as six grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 2 – 4 on Sunday, September 13, 2026 at Whitten Timberlake Chapel. A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 pm on Monday, September 14, 2026 at Chestnut Hill Baptist Church, 5225 Fort Avenue, Lynchburg, VA.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Lynchburg Fire Department Museum Att: Tammy Fore, 800 Madison Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504.