Stephen Alan Coons

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Stephen (Steve) Alan Coons; loving father, amazing grandfather, and loyal friend. Steve was born on August 29, 1945, in Columbus, Indiana. Steve passed away on October 20, 2025, in Columbus, Indiana, where he was a lifelong resident. Steve married Nancy (Reeder) Coons in 1972.

Steve is survived by Nancy and their children, Monica (Brian) Anderson, and Todd (Kim Kasting) Coons. He is also survived by his beloved grandsons, Max, Reid, and Graham Anderson; his cousins, Jennifer Coons, Craig Coons, Tom Gray, Bill Gray, and Ann Gibson.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Helena Coons Hogg, his father, Charles E. Coons, his uncles, Chloral W. Coons, Cecil R. Coons, and Theodore C. Coons, as well as his aunt, Marilouise Coons.

Steve graduated from Columbus High School in 1963 and from Wabash College in 1967 with a degree in English Literature and History. He received his Master’s degree in education from Indiana University in 1972. Steve taught Language Arts at Northside Middle School in Columbus for 33 years. Steve was known for his high expectations in the classroom and his ability to help students see their potential through his steadfast commitment to their success.

Upon retirement from teaching, Steve found joy in working as a jewelry consultant at Brenden Diamonds in Columbus, where he became a certified gemologist and diamontologist. His infectious personality and unwavering passion for finding joy in the happiness of others drew countless people to him for his expertise and advice.

Steve was an animal lover; many days and nights, you could find Steve feeding stray cats, sharing his patio with birds and rabbits, and offering financial support to a wide variety of animal charities. In his spare time, he also enjoyed watching his grandsons play sports and was ever present at family celebrations and gatherings.

Above all else, Steve was a man of immense kindness and compassion. He was the epitome of decency and humanity, representing the best in the world. Steve lived by example and did not take today for granted. In the words of his favorite musical artist, Tina Turner, “The future is this moment and not some place out there”. His legacy will forever be the love and grace he gave to anyone he met.

Calling hours will take place on Tuesday, October 28th, from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Myers-Reed Chapel, 3729 25th Street, Columbus, Indiana. A private family funeral will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be made in Steve’s honor to the following organizations: Heritage Fund, Our Hospice of South Central Indiana, or the Alzheimer's Association.

Please leave a fond memory of Stephen at www.Myers-Reed.com.

Myers-Reed Chapel on 25th Street is serving the Coons family.