James Christian Alsop

James Christian Alsop, 79, gained his heavenly wings on April 12, 2026. Born on September 29, 1946, in Richmond, Virginia, Christian lived a life defined by dedication to family, service, and community.

He was the beloved son of the late Frances Holmes Alsop and James Ollie Alsop, and was also preceded in death by his brother, William Alsop.

Christian was raised in Newtown, Virginia and graduated from Central High School in 1964 before continuing his education at Virginia State University, where he earned his degree in 1968. During his college years, he became a proud Brother of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Beta Gamma Chapter, initiated in Spring 1966, where he was “affectionately” known as “Little Tommy Tucker.”

He devoted his professional career to public service, working 42 years for the United States Department of Agriculture, where he rose to the executive position of Deputy Administrator. His work reflected his commitment to excellence and leadership.

At an early age, Christian joined First Mount Olive Baptist Church in Newtown, Virginia, where his faith and values were nurtured and remained a guiding force throughout his life.

Christian found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid Washington Redskins fan, enjoyed bike riding, pickleball (co-founder of the Ford’s Colony Pickleball Group), lawn care, and took pride in keeping his car spotless. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. Music also brought him happiness, particularly “I’ll Be Around” by the Spinners and “Silent Night” by the Temptations holding special places in his heart.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 58 years, Joan Brown Alsop; his sons, Captain Richard Alsop, U.S. Navy (Ret.) and his wife Tina, Shawn Christopher Alsop and his wife Tameka; and his beloved grandchildren Kennedi, Tavier, Reagan, Devin, and Talen. He is also survived by his siblings Robert Alsop and his wife Terry, Wendy Alsop, Bryan Alsop, Spencer Coleman, Fred Coleman, and extended family including inlaws: Minister Robert Brown, Dora Edmonds and Minister Karen Brown-Taylor; nieces and nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

Christian also shared a special bond with his beloved pets, including his childhood horse named Betty, and Reagan’s dog, Ollie.

James Christian Alsop will be remembered for his strength, his unwavering dedication to his family, his sense of pride in all he did, and the joy he brought to those around him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched. His actions always spoke louder than his words.

We will all deeply miss him and as his granddaughters loved to hear their Papa say, “Catch ya later.”

A Celebration of Life will be held at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23188, US, on April 25, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.