James Edward Coggins, III

James Edward “Trey” Coggins III, a loving father, faithful partner, cherished friend, beloved nephew and dedicated public servant, passed away unexpectedly on July 8, 2024, at the age of 50.

Trey was born in Jacksonville, FL to Jim and June Coggins on October 2, 1973. He spent most of his younger life overseas with his father’s job and attended the Saudi Arabia International School- Riyadh. When the family returned to the states, they moved to Augusta, Georgia where Trey attended and graduated from Evans High School in 1991. After graduation his folks moved back to Saudi and Trey attended Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia where he became a loyal member of Sigma Nu-Theta Kappa fraternity. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1996.

With a career spanning 26 years, Trey served with distinction in various government departments and agencies, including the Department of the Army, USDA Forest Service, Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, Department of the Navy, and the Department of Peace Corps. He traveled the world throughout his career from the sands of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to the mountains of Colorado and Wyoming. His highest grade achieved was GS-13, a testament to his commitment and expertise. In 2008, while serving with the Army Corps of Engineers in Baghdad, Iraq, Trey received the meritorious Superior Civilian Service Award, one of the many awards he earned during his distinguished career. His contributions were widely recognized, and he was admired for his ability to make a difference in every role he undertook as well as in the lives of the people he served.

Beyond his career, Trey was a man of many cool adventures. He had a deep love for reading and learning, always delving into a wide range of topics including history, politics, philosophy, religion, music, anthropology, and horticulture. His appreciation for the outdoors was evident in his passion for hiking, camping, canoeing, and swimming. Whether he was finding solace on a peaceful mountain trail or soaking in the salt and sand of the sea, Trey embraced every moment in awe and appreciation of God’s great creation and the miracle of existence. He was also an enthusiastic traveler, eager to see the world, experience new cultures and meet new people. In quieter moments, he found joy in shooting pool and playing chess. Trey was also a proud member of The Sons of Confederate Veterans, a testament to his southern heritage and his dedication to preserve and fight for truth and liberty.

 Trey was more than his professional and personal accomplishments. He was a man who could light up any room with his smile, a magnetic person with an intelligent quick wit and a sense of humor that was unmatched. His loyalty to his friends and family was unwavering, and he was known for his loving, kind, and generous spirit.

Trey’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy of service, his cleverness, and his kind heart will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to be a part of his life.

Trey was preceded in death by his parents Jim and June Coggins. He is survived by his fiancé, Pollie Leitch; children, Elizabeth and Jackson Coggins; aunts and uncles, Kyle (Kinie) Davis, Susan (Jason) White and Elizabeth Williams; cousins, Jacob Davis, Brent White, Derek White, Chrissy Ritter, Blake Williams, and David Williams.

A memorial service will be held, and Trey’s ashes will be laid to rest with his parents on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Gravely Hill Cemetery in Jacksonville, Florida at 4:30pm. Family and friends are invited to gather at Bistro 202 in the Mariott Jacksonville Downtown following the service. 

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James Edward “Trey” Coggins III.