James Lynwood Handy

James Lynwood Handy, 85, of Rocky Mount, Virginia, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday morning, October 13, 2025.

Born on September 1, 1940, Lynwood was the son of the late James Andrew Handy and Hattie Via Handy. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Randolph “Randy” Handy and William Joseph “Bill” Handy, and his son, James Gregory “Greg” Handy.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Cooper Handy of Rocky Mount; daughter, Kelly Cooper Handy of Roanoke; grandson, Bryson Handy; brothers, Roger Handy and Harold Handy; nephews Kevin Dudley, Clay Worrell, Joe Handy, and Tyler Handy; and nieces Molly Handy Withers, Heywood Handy Thomas, Katie Handy Bittinger, Alison Handy, and Lori Dudley Luviano.

A graduate of Franklin County High School, Lynwood was an exceptional athlete, excelling in both football and baseball. He still holds a school record for the longest pass completion and was recruited by the minor leagues as a pitcher. He grew up in Ferrum, Virginia, and after attending Ferrum College, he proudly served in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1964, completing a tour at sea in the Mediterranean. He later retired from Bassett Furniture Industries, where he worked in data processing.

Lynwood had a lifelong curiosity for how things worked and were made. Whatever caught his interest, he researched and mastered. His many hobbies reflected that passion, from taking flying lessons and learning to fly, to playing the banjo and building his own musical instruments, including fiddles and guitars. He also enjoyed restoring and remodeling antique cars, as well as crafting and restoring firearms.

Lynwood cherished his friendships and family and wanted to acknowledge those he was fond of or especially close to throughout his life: lifelong friend Gene Parker and wife Barbara, Andrew Parker, Wes Parker, Linda Prillaman, Morris and Susie Walthall, Lowell and Judy Haynes, Ben and Abbie Pinckard, Bud and Carolyn Blanchard, brother-in-law L.E. Cooper, and sisters-in-law Janet Handy, Paulette Cooper, Vicki Dudley, Marni Cooper, JeRena Handy and niece, Lori Dudley Luviano.

Lynwood lived with a spirit of curiosity and kindness, leaving behind not only the beautiful things he built, but also the many lives he touched.

The family thanks the Carilion Hospice team who provided care and comfort.  Lynwood looked forward to their visits and was so appreciative of the Veteran Pinning Ceremony arranged by the hospice volunteer coordinator.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Rocky Mount United Methodist Church.

The family will receive visitors on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at Flora Funeral Service in Rocky Mount, Virginia, followed by a chapel service. A graveside service for the burial of his urn will then follow in Mountain View Memorial Park. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.