Arthur Daniel Coleman

Arthur Daniel Coleman, 77, of Peoria, Illinois, originally from Fairfield, Alabama, passed away on October 14, 2026, following a courageous battle with prostate cancer. He was born on August 12, 1949, in Fairfield, Alabama, to Robert Cleveland Coleman and Willie Mae (Moss) Coleman.

Arthur grew up in Alabama during a pivotal time in American history and participated in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. After a few stops, he later made his way to Peoria, Illinois, where he built a life, established lasting friendships, and started a family.

On March 23, 1979, Arthur married Ethelyn Coleman in Peoria, Illinois. He was a loving husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather. He served as a Custodial Engineer for Peoria Public Schools District 150 before retiring. Family was always a priority for Arthur, and he made a point of maintaining meaningful relationships with those he loved. His sense of family extended far beyond relatives; he treated his friends like family and built an expansive network of relationships throughout his life.

Arthur was a humble, hardworking man who took immense pride in his work without ever seeking recognition or praise. He believed in doing things himself whenever possible and found satisfaction in a job well done.

Despite his humility, his personality was anything but small. Known for his wonderful sense of humor and unmistakable, boisterous laugh, Arthur brought joy wherever he went. He enjoyed the company of others and had a good-natured spirit that made people feel welcome.

Arthur enjoyed gardening, grilling, and cars. His garden was a source of pride and a way to keep some of his favorite foods close at hand. He also found great pleasure in cooking—not only in preparing a good meal, but in the joy of sharing it with others. For Arthur, providing for the people he cared about was one of life’s greatest satisfactions.

Arthur is survived by his loving wife, Ethelyn Coleman; his son, Eric Coleman; his daughter-in-law, Joely Coleman; and his grandson, Isaiah Coleman. He is also survived by his siblings, Oszie Coleman, Deborah Coleman, Gloria Diahkate, Clarence Coleman, Vera Cook, and Alice Robinson, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Cleveland Coleman and Willie Mae Coleman, and his brother, Robert Coleman Jr.

Arthur will be remembered for his humility, good nature, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. His kindness, willingness to help others, and wonderful sense of humor will remain cherished by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held at the Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel, 2021 N University Street, Peoria, IL 61604, beginning at 1:00 PM, followed by a service honoring Arthur’s life at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the OSF Cancer Institute Oncology Massage Therapy Program or to organizations supporting oncology massage therapy, in recognition of the care and support that were most meaningful to Arthur during his battle with cancer.