Simmie and Jeanie L. Coleman

Simmie Lee Coleman, Sr. and Jeanie L. Brown-Coleman shared a loving marriage of 69 years before their passing. Simmie was born on July 23, 1935, in Butler, Alabama, to John H. Coleman and Arie Mae Ridgeway-Coleman. Jeanie was born on November 18, 1937, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Joseph Brown, Sr. and Estelle Evans-Brown. They married on December 22, 1956. Simmie transitioned on January 25, 2026, and Jeanie on March 10, 2026.

Simmie worked at LTV Steel for 26 years before becoming a skilled general contractor whose craftsmanship was respected throughout the region. He and Jeanie also partnered together for more than 50 years in a successful drapery business. Jeanie was a talented self-taught seamstress and an exceptional cook and baker. She found joy in reading, staying informed on current events, working word search puzzles, and shopping. Above all, she was a devoted mother to her four children and cherished her grandchildren.

Both Simmie and Jeanie held a deep faith and served their church communities with dedication. They were longtime members of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where Simmie served as a Trustee, and Jeanie served as an usher and choir member. They later became faithful members of Third Baptist Church.

They are survived by their children: sons Simmie L. Coleman, Jr. (Brenda) and Christopher J. Coleman, and daughters Shelda A. Coleman-Blackwell and Allison C. Reese (Guy); four grandchildren, Ariana M. Ahyee, Joshua N. Blackwell, Gregory Coleman, and Ryan Harrison; and one great-granddaughter, Gabriella Coleman. Simmie is also survived by his sister, Shirley T. Coleman-Green of Alabama. Jeanie is survived by her sister, Henrietta Jeter of Michigan, along with many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.