John spent his early years working in various occupations including automobile mechanic, security guard, and driving a tour bus for Harrisons’ Tours. Later in life, he drove the compost truck for Waste Management Inc. and Rizzo Environmental Services (which was eventually sold to Green for Life – GFL Environmental Services). He also served as a lieutenant for the Highland Park 100 in 2012 and 2013.
John knew that God existed and was a very spiritual being. He loved being with other people as well as helping them out whenever needed. He loved cars, motorcycles, and the Blues. He also loved to watch Western movies, as well as nature and animal documentaries. One always knew where they stood with him because he never put on airs or tried to pretend he was someone other than who he was. He was a good husband, a good father, as well as a best friend. He, and the twinkle in his eyes, while teasing someone, will be certainly missed.
John was born to Ulan Coleman and Rosie Lee Cockrell on October 02, 1949 in Phoeba, Mississippi. He lost his five year battle with lung cancer, at home, on May 23, 2020 while under hospice care. He leaves to cherish his memory, a wife of forty-two years, Zelma Coleman; a daughter, Jhameilah C. Coleman (Mother Mya Khan); a sister, Arletha (Joseph) Traylor; a brother Bennie L. (Maggie) Coleman, and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. He also leaves behind a close brother-in-law, Michael L. (Denise) Tyus and several loyal friends. He was pre-deceased by his parents, brothers John Ross Coleman and James Ernest Coleman, and sister Eula Mae Daniels.
The family would like to thank our relatives and friends for their expression of love and condolences in our time of bereavement. May God bless each and every one of you.
