Beloved Richmond pastor passes away after decades of leadership

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A beloved and influential Richmond pastor has passed away after more than four decades of serving his community.

Rev. Dr. A. Lincoln James, Jr., the pastor of Richmond's Trinity Baptist Church, has died. An online obituary states that he passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 17.

James led Trinity Baptist Church for 45 years, according to a Dec. 18 Facebook post from the church.

"Dr. James faithfully served our church and community with unwavering commitment, spiritual leadership and a heart devoted to God's people," Trinity Baptist Church said in its statement on James' death. "We ask that you keep the James family, our church family and all who were touched by his ministry lifted in prayer during this time of bereavement."

State Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-2) issued a statement on James' passing, in which he emphasized the profound impact that he had not only on the Richmond community, but throughout Virginia.

That statement is as follows:

“Rev. James was a charismatic and influential preacher who had a remarkable career. He led Trinity Baptist Church for several decades and served as a mentor for clergy members throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. He also improved the Richmond region through his leadership as President of the Virginia Baptist State Convention, his service on the Virginia Parole Board, his work as a seminar professor and his vision as the driving force in the creation of the Trinity Family Life Center, which provides essential services to thousands of young people every year. I am thankful to have benefited from his counsel and friendship throughout my career, and I sincerely offer my heartfelt condolences to Rev. James’ family, loved ones, congregation and people who were impacted by his ministry and body of work.” State Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-2)

As of the time of reporting, funeral arrangements for James are still pending.