John Thomas Coffman Sr.

John Thomas Coffman Sr., 79, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 12, 2026, in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. He was born on September 19, 1946, in Louisville, Kentucky to Woodrow and Eula Mae Coffman.

John was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A proud and patriotic veteran, he honorably served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

Known for his favorite response, “Whatever,” John was a bit outspoken and never afraid to say what was on his mind. Though he didn’t always have a filter, he was easygoing and laid back, with a personality that made him unforgettable to those around him.

Softball was John’s lifelong passion. Whether he was playing, coaching, or umpiring, he dedicated decades to the sport. Remarkably, he continued playing well into his 70s and proudly earned many World Softball Tournament Championships over the years.

John was also an avid outdoorsman who loved spending time hunting and fishing. Above all else, he treasured time with his family. He rarely missed an opportunity to pass along life’s lessons to his grandchildren—teaching them to appreciate the simple joys of life, including how to enjoy pickled beets.

In his spare time, John could often be found watching his beloved Rosemary perform at the Shepherdsville Country Music Show on Saturday nights, cheering on his beloved Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball, or listening to classic country music from groups like The Statler Brothers.

John will be remembered for his dedication, his honesty, his love of family, and the many memories he created with those around him. He will be greatly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow Steven Coffman and Eula Mae Fowler Coffman; and 2 brothers, Steve Coffman and Kenny Coffman.

Left to cherish his memory, John is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary Coffman; 2 children, John Coffman Jr. (Suzanne) and Amy Willard (Eric); 4 grandchildren, McKinze, Riley, Beau, and Jack; 2 great-grandchildren, Ivory and Leon; 3 siblings, Don Coffman (Sue), Danny Coffman (Cindy), and Rusty Coffman (Bert); many nieces/nephews; and a host of extended family and close friends.

A funeral service for Mr. John T. Coffman Sr., will be held at 4 PM on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Louisville Memorial Gardens West Funeral Home, 4400 Dixie Highway, Louisville, Kentucky. Visitation will be held from 11 AM to 4 PM at the funeral home, prior to the funeral service. Burial at Louisville Memorial Gardens West will take place on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 10 AM.

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