Beloved Portsmouth Man James Lee Stapleton Passes Away at 78

Longtime Star Workshop employee and Victory Tabernacle Church deacon remembered for his faith, service, and love of discovery

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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James Lee Stapleton, a 78-year-old resident of Portsmouth, Virginia, passed away peacefully at the SOMC Hospice Center. Born in 1947, Stapleton dedicated his working life to the Star Workshop and served as a deacon at the Victory Tabernacle Church, where he uplifted those around him with his faith and service. He is remembered for his simple pleasures, including attending yard sales, exploring antique stores, and collecting cans, which reflected his generous spirit and love for discovery.

Why it matters

Stapleton's passing marks the loss of a beloved community member who was deeply involved in local organizations and known for his kind and giving nature. His life story highlights the importance of community engagement and service, especially for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The details

Stapleton was a proud graduate of the Happy Hearts School and worked at the Star Workshop, a local organization that provides employment and support services for individuals with disabilities. He was also a committed member of the Victory Tabernacle Church, where he served as a deacon and shared his faith with others.

  • Stapleton was born on March 7, 1947, in Portsmouth, Virginia.
  • He passed away peacefully at the SOMC Hospice Center on February 10, 2026.
  • A service in honor of Stapleton's life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 7th, at the Brant Funeral Home in Sciotoville.

The players

James Lee Stapleton

A 78-year-old resident of Portsmouth, Virginia, who dedicated his working life to the Star Workshop and served as a deacon at the Victory Tabernacle Church.

Mittie Marks Stapleton

Stapleton's loving wife.

Ruth (Marty) McGlone

Stapleton's pastor at the Victory Tabernacle Church.

Marty and Frank

Stapleton's cherished church friends.

Bill Gay

Stapleton's special caregiver, who preceded him in death.

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What’s next

A service in honor of Stapleton's life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 7th, at the Brant Funeral Home in Sciotoville.

The takeaway

Stapleton's life story highlights the importance of community engagement and service, especially for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His dedication to the Star Workshop and the Victory Tabernacle Church, as well as his simple pleasures and generous spirit, made him a beloved figure in the Portsmouth community.