Russell Marvin Coats

Russell M. Coats, 99, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026 in Osage Beach, Missouri. Born on November 3, 1926 in Columbia, Missouri. He lived a long and full life marked by dedication to family, faith, community, and country.

Russel was the son of James Allen Coats and Mary Louisa Roberts. He was one of thirteen siblings and was preceded in death by twelve brothers and sisters: Andrew (Buffalo) Coats, Mattie Brown, Lena Maude Nichols, Orville Coats, Mable Hoffman, Ethel Garrett, Pauline Baumgartner, James Coats, Aubrey Coats, Harold Coats, Leon Coats, and Albert Coats – who passed away during the flu epidemic of 1920 at just eleven months old.

A proud graduate of Hickman High School in Columbia in 1945, Russell joined the United States Navy shortly after graduation. He served honorably as a torpedo-man aboard the USS Ronguil submarine in the South Pacific during the final stages of World War II.

Upon returning from the military, Russell married his high school sweetheart Vera Francis (Frenny) Jacobs. The couple enjoyed 67 years of marital bliss until Vera passed in 2017.

In 1957, Russell co-founded COMO Tire Supply, Inc. with a business partner in Centralia, Missouri. The company initially focused on serving the agricultural community – a connection Russell maintained throughout his life. In 1961 they relocated to Columbia where it evolved into a more retail-oriented operation. Despite this shift in focus, Russell never lost touch with his agriculture roots or the farming families who formed the foundation of his early customer base. Known as an honest businessman with a strong work ethic and deep integrity, he earned the respect and trust of countless customers over decades of service.

Russell was a devoted family man. He is survived by two sons: Russell (Rusty) Coats and Larry Coats; two daughters-in-law: Melanie Coats (Rusty) and Paula Coats (Larry); three grandchildren: Cortney Teague (Matt), Greg Coats (Diana), James Coats (Layla); as well as numerous great-grandchildren whose lives were brightened by his presence.

He had a deep love not only for his own family but also for his wife’s family - the Jacobs’ . His warmth extended beyond immediate relatives to all those fortunate enough to know him.

A man of faith throughout his life, Russell was a strong and faithful member of Olivet Christian Church. His commitment to his church community reflected his value of kindness, humility, and service.

Outside of work and worship, Russell found joy in simple pleasures – he loved playing golf and hunting quail. These hobbies brought him camaraderie and peace throughout his later years. A naturally social person with an easy smile and welcoming demeanor, he built lasting friendships wherever he went.

Russell’s legacy is one of steadfast devotion – to his country through military service; to his community through honest business practices; to his church through unwavering faith; and most importantly to his family through unconditional love.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as an enduring example of a life well lived.

The visitation is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Catering will follow the service.