Obituaries

Michael James Coleman

Michael James Coleman passed away peacefully on October 27, 2026, in Elgin, Texas, at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family. After a long journey with dementia, he passed with those closest to him by his side. Although the disease changed many aspects of his life, it could never diminish the love his family held for him or the lasting memories they will forever treasure.

Born on December 5, 1947 in East Liverpool, Ohio, Michael was the son of Ralph Eugene and Dorothy Mae (Martin) Coleman. He grew up in East Liverpool and lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, loyalty, and love for his family.

At a young age, Michael answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He proudly served from 1967 to 1970, attaining the rank of Sergeant. During his service, he was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia; served in Vietnam; and was later stationed at Fort Lee, Virginia. His military service remained an important part of his life, and he carried the values of duty, honor, and commitment with him long after his years in uniform.

Following his military service, Michael spent 11 years working at Crucible Steel Mill in Midland, Pennsylvania. He later relocated to Houston, Texas, where he worked in the oil industry before beginning a 25-year career as a machinist at Anheuser-Busch Brewery.

Above all, Michael cherished his family. He believed in the importance of hard work, seeing things through to completion, and always putting family first. These were the values he lived by and passed on to those he loved.

Michael is survived by his wife, Joyce (Farnsworth) Coleman, of Manor, Texas; his son, Thomas Coleman, of Marion, Texas; and his daughter, Laura (Coleman) Welsh, and her husband, John Welsh, of Leander, Texas. He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Seth, Tiffany, and Daniel Coleman, and Caitlin and Noah Welsh, seven great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is also survived by his three sisters: Virginia Shawl of Midland, Pennsylvania; Janet Yovanovich of Livonia, Michigan; and Sherri Bishop of Grand Prairie, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph E. and Dorothy Coleman; his brother, Ralph E. Coleman, Jr.; his sisters, Kay Clutter and Marcia “Sue” Shroades; and his daughter-in-law, Michelle (Miller) Coleman.

Those who knew Michael will remember him for his love of family, humor, dedication, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

A funeral service will be held on November 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, located at 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road in San Antonio, Texas. Military honors will be rendered in recognition of Michael's honorable service to our country.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Dementia Society of America.

He proudly served his country, loved his family, and leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.