Retha Louise Coleman, age 88, of Monroe, Louisiana, went home to be with the Lord surrounded by the ones she loved most. Born on June 25, 1937, Retha lived a full, beautiful life overflowing with faith in Jesus, laughter, and good old-fashioned Southern charm.
Retha always wanted her family and guests to feel special. Whether it was making their favorite meal or sharing words of wisdom from “her chair,” she had a way of making you feel seen and loved. She was strong but gentle, graceful with subtle wit, the heart of her family, and the keeper of so many sweet memories.
She relished the days of sharing coffee around the kitchen table with neighbors and family often recounting stories her time playing basketball for Ouachita Parish High School, her 20 years at the Department of Motor Vehicles, or her traveling adventures with her sister-in-law, Wilma Rainwater.
A true Gaither music lover, Retha found comfort and joy in gospel songs that lifted her spirit and spoke to her soul. You could often find her humming along, hands folded, letting those sweet harmonies fill her heart, while watching Jewelry television or playing cards.
Retha’s meek and quite spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her family takes comfort knowing she’s now resting easy, at the feet of her Savior, reunited with so many family and beloved friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Tommy Ray Coleman; her parents, Raymond and Carrie Norman; and four brothers, Raymond Carl Norman, Douglas Norman, Eugene Norman, and Hobert Norman.
She leaves behind her devoted daughter, Peggy Lynn Coleman Barrett (Marc); granddaughter, Cari Elisabeth Barrett Hunt (Logan); two great grandbabies, Lori Faye Hunt and Barrett Hunt; who could always bring a smile to her face. They were her pride and joy. Also left to cherish her memory are sister-in-law, Barbara Norman, Sid Coleman, and a host of nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to Stillwater Hospice for the incredible care and support you provided for our entire family though this long journey. Your presence, empathy, patience and unwavering kindness have given us strength. Thank you for being a beacon of light in our lives and for the tremendous work you do.
In lieu of flowers, in honor of Retha’s love for faith, family, and community, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alpine Christian School through the Alpine First Baptist Church. A Celebration of Life will be held in November, details to follow.
All funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, LA. Friends may post online messages of condolences for the Coleman family by visiting http://www.rushfh.com.