John Franklin Colley

John Franklin “Tuck” Colley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026 at home surrounded by his family, at the age of 86.

Tuck was born on February 23, 1940, in Virginia to the late Frank and Beulah Mae Colley. He spent his life in the community he loved, building a legacy through his family, his work, and the passions that brought him so much joy.

Tuck worked at the Paper Mill in West Point for over 30 years, where he retired. While he was a hardworking man, those who knew him best knew that his true passion was the outdoors. Tuck loved to hunt—there wasn’t much that walked on four legs that he wouldn’t hunt, but deer hunting held a special place in his heart. Many memories were made in the woods, and his love of hunting remained a defining part of who he was throughout his life.

Before and alongside his love of hunting, Tuck also had a passion for racing. From the 1970s through the 1980s, he raced at Virginia Motor Speedway, where he won numerous races. Racing was another chapter in a life filled with competition, excitement, and plenty of stories to tell. He also spent many years golfing, even if it was just in the backyard.

Tuck also spent many years playing music and attending music events at the Waterview Firehouse, where he enjoyed the company, fellowship, and music that brought people together.

Tuck was a familiar face throughout the county, and it seemed there was hardly a person who didn’t know him or have a story to tell about him. His presence was woven into the community he called home for so many years, and he leaves behind countless friends and memories throughout the county. He will be remembered for his strong personality, his love of the outdoors, his competitive spirit, and most of all, the love he had for his family. His memory will live on through the many lives he touched and the stories that will continue to be told for generations to come.

Tuck was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Beulah Mae Colley; and his sisters, Vernell Hunter, Laura Mae Walton, Elva Langford, and Peggy Roane.

He is survived by his loving wife, Darlene Colley; his children, Amanda Lehto (Nick), Cheryl Denice Colley, and Darrell Colley; his step-daughter, Pamela Rowe; his grandchildren, Ashley Parson (Terrance), Dusty Beverly (Amanda), Meagan French, Caitlyn French (Hector), Jessica Colley, DJ Colley, Landon Sikora, and Grayson Sikora; his sister, Lena Sickal; 11 great-grandchildren; and his beloved dog, Nina. He leaves behind so many friendships formed throughout his life.

Tuck leaves behind a lifetime of memories, stories, and love that will remain with his family and friends forever. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Hermitage Baptist Church in Church View, Virginia.

The family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and the many visits from family and friends he received before his passing.