Bishop John Edward Coles, 58, of South Boston, Virginia, transitioned from labor to reward on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Chippenham Hospital in Richmond, Virginia.

Born on March 27, 1967, in Danville, Virginia, he was the son of the late Edward Coles Jr. and Ruby D. Jones Coles.

Bishop Coles was the senior pastor and founder of the Greater United Apostolic Church in Danville, Virginia, Bishop & Overseer of Restoration House of Grace, Chatham Virginia, and the First Vice Presider of the Victorious Apostolic Churches, Inc.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl G. Coles; his sister, Thelma Coles Jeter (Brad); five sons, Demetrius Coles, Johntay Coles, Brian Coles, Raheen Coles, and Paul Coles; five daughters, Genene Coles, Shanika Penn, Simone Coles, Braya Coles and Alifia Coles; two Stepchildren, Patrick Terry (Tierra) and Ashlea Christmas (Sean); two nieces, Amiyah and Alexiah Jeter; and a host of grandchildren, aunts, uncles, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by Lady Robin T. Coles, as well as his maternal and paternal grandparents.

The family will receive friends from 12-4 Tuesday-Thursday in the Greater United Apostolic Church fellowship hall. 

Viewing will be held on Friday June 6, 2025, from 6:00 PM-8:00 PM at Greater United Apostolic Church. 

Funeral services will be conducted from the Bible Way Cathedral, Danville, Virginia on Saturday June 7, 2025, at 12:00 Noon. All clergy are asked to dress in civic attire. Interment will follow in Danville Memorial Gardens. 

Wilson Funeral Services and Cremation, Inc. is assisting the Coles family.