Dewey Lee Coughran

I'd like to begin by thanking everyone for coming to celebrate Dewey Coughrans, aka Papa's, life. Dewey was an extraordinary man. He had a resolute charm and wit that would steal the show. His no nonsense honesty was unmatched. But it was Dewey's generosity and love for others, especially for his family and for God, that stood out. He was truly a man after God's own heart, and God's light reflected off of him like the sun's light on moon lighting the world.

Dewey was born on November 1, 1940 in Tehachapi California. He was the first born child of Grover and Beulah Coughran. His brothers and sister are Bill, June, and Larry.

Dewey went to East Bakersfield High and graduated in 1958. He spent most of his career at Santa Fe railroad as a Supervisor, where he was a very loyal employee. In fact if you look up hard working man, you will find Dewey's picture next to it. He was the epitome to hard work, and I know you all would agree.

In 1958 he met Jeanette in the high school study hall. A few spitballs later and they were high school sweethearts and the best of friends. The two were married in 1960. They had two daughters Shellie and Ronda. This past April Dewey and Jeanette celebrated their 63rd anniversary. This goes without saying, Dewey loved his family, especially his grandkids. From getting on his knees and pretending to be a horse, to wrestling them to the ground, giving big Papa hugs, and miraculously getting them outside and putting them to work. Usually it was pulling weeds, the grandchildren would call it child slave labor. His grandchildren are: Ed, Jessica, Joshua, Justen, Brianna, and Shane. He also had his great grandchildren Isaiah, Micah, and Melyna.

Dewey was very active with his church family especially working with his Christ brothers and sisters in RV Maps. For 18 years he unselfishly served RV Maps by tossing Jeanette in the truck and dragging his fifth wheel across state lines to build churches. Serving, building, and caretaking were his true callings. The people he met through RV Maps were God's blessings to him, and became more than just friends, but family.

Papa would always say time flies, so enjoy the moments you have. Yes, the world is a sadder place without Dewey, but if he were here right now, he would ask us all to cheer up and smile, because he is at peace in the Father's arms. He would also try making us all laugh by saying something snarky. Most importantly, he would tell us to live our lives and to not "worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about itself." He would tell us not to say goodbye, because we will see him again when we are all reunited with him and our Messiah Jesus. Dewey touched each and every one of us and has left us with amazing memories that we will cherish. We love you Dewey Coughran, aka Papa.

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. - Lamentations 3:22-23