Lila Young Coleman

Our precious and very loved mom, Lila Young Coleman, went to heaven Friday, February 12, 2021, at 8:45 a.m. at the age of 81. We have this confidence because she asked Jesus to come into her heart as a young girl and had a personal relationship with him. Parkinson’s and dementia are cruel diseases of this fallen world. It’s so comforting to know right now she has a new body and mind and has nothing but complete joy and peace. She’s not floating on a cloud – she would hate that! She has a purpose and is serving. Best of all she is with Jesus.

Our parents were married for over 60 years. Dad is grieving, but not like those that have no hope. Please pray for him as he deals with life on earth without her. Our parents led us to Christ as children and because of that we will be with her again one day. All of us will miss her so much, but look forward to enjoying eternity together.

Mom was very talented. She loved to sew and made countless beautiful clothes for her grandbabies as well as for many family members and friends. She was comfortable with a toolbox and would amaze us with the many things she could fix around the house.

She was never intimidated by taking on a new challenge. She water skied in the ocean where sharks hang out. When others were fleeing at the site of a bear… She got closer in order to get a better look. She loved to fish and even through the pain and heartache of Parkinson’s would usually catch more than anyone. In her 70’s, she said she would like to try to deer hunt at least one time. None of us were surprised that within 15 or 20 minutes of leaving Scott’s cabin for her one and only hunt she was successful. She loved competition and when winning she would frequently let you hear about it! She had a wonderful dry sense of humor and with a straight face could have those around her laughing.

But above all, mom was a wonderful example of Christ-like servant hood. She was happiest when serving others. When family and friends gathered, she rarely sat down. She recognized and met needs before anyone else was ever aware.

Family was always a priority and at age 40 when all of her friends began to enjoy being “empty-nesters” she took on one of her biggest challenges. Against all advice, she became Scott’s primary caregiver when he became a quadriplegic at age 17. Some thought she could never do it, but with grace and never a complaint she not only took care of his every need, but continued to serve everyone in our home.

She would want us to encourage you today that no matter what is in your past or where you find yourself today, don’t miss out on heaven. Mom was a follower of Jesus. A believer. A Christian. She wasn’t “religious.” All religions with the exception of Christianity have a list of “do’s and don’ts” which are impossible to keep. Mom believed Jesus had taken care of all of it on the cross… And trusted His perfect plan and His sacrifice for all of us. Ephesians 2:8 – 9.” God saved you by his grace when you believed. You can’t take credit for this: it’s a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.”

Lila was born to Veva and J.A. Young in Fort Payne, AL. Many happy years were spent in Alabama, before Bill and Lila made their home in Memphis, and then in Olive Branch.

Lila was predeceased by her parents Veva and J.A. Young, and many aunts and uncles. She is survived by her husband Bill Coleman, her daughter Kelly Armes (Tim) of Olive Branch, MS, her son Scott Coleman (Linda) of Olive Branch, MS, her grandchildren Coleman Armes (Alicia), Savannah Kraft (Andrew), Travis Armes and Garret Armes (Amy), her sister Pam Shive (Ron) and her brother, Bill Young (Nancy).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to the Disaster Relief Fund, LaBelle Haven Baptist Church, 4800 Highway 305 N, Olive Branch, MS 38654, or to the charity of your choice. The Disaster Relief Fund will help LaBelle Haven serve those impacted by natural disasters. There will be a private graveside service at Memorial Park South Woods, Memphis, TN.