Jones Funeral Home | Sarasota, FL

Obituary For Elex Coleman Sr.

Elex "Gene" Coleman, 83, of Tampa, Florida, peacefully passed away on November 8, 2023, in Sarasota, Florida. He was born Elex Jordan Coleman on October 18, 1940, in Tampa, Florida. Gene, as he was fondly known, was a strong and hardworking man who fought a long and courageous battle. He was a devoted husband to his wife Susie of 17 years and took great pride in providing for his four children. Gene was a man of great character and will be deeply missed.

Elex "Gene" is survived by his beloved wife Susie Coleman, his brothers James Coleman (Bettye) and Donell Taylor Sr., his sisters Linda Hunter (Kenneth) and Deorotha "Dee" Sutton, his children Tony "Greg" Coleman (Tiffany), Preston Coleman, Vivian "Debbie" Moreland-Sullivan (Vicki), Elexia "Lexy" Moss (Jakey), and Elex "EJ" Coleman, Jr. His stepsons Travis Morgan and Satchel Morgan, as well as 18 grandchildren and numerous loving great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other family members. He was preceded in death by his father Eddie Coleman, mother Alma Taylor, stepfather Chester Taylor and brothers Howard Taylor Sr. and Ronald Taylor.

After graduating from Middleton High School in the Class of 1958, Gene followed his dream of becoming a funeral director. He worked with Funeral Homes in Tampa, including Stone-Gordon and Wilson Funeral Home. Throughout his life, he held various jobs, including positions with the Sarasota County School District, John Deere Inc., and the Sarasota Kennel Club. Elex "Gene" was also an entrepreneur, owning and operating a dry-cleaning business, convenience store, and an office cleaning company.

Elex "Gene" worshipped at St. Martha's Catholic Church. He was baptized Catholic at St. Peter Cleaver Catholic Church, received his First Holy Communion, Confirmed, served as an Alter Boy and attended grade school. He found solace and community in his faith, and it was an important part of his life.

In his free time, Elex "Gene· enjoyed smoking a good cigar and watching wrestling. These hobbies brought him joy and relaxation.

A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, November 21, at 10:00 am at St. Peter Cleaver Catholic Church located at 1203 North Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL. Following the service, Elex "Gene" will be laid to rest at Rest Haven Cemetery, located at 4615 E Hanna St, Tampa, FL. A repast will be held directly after the burial at St. Peter Cleaver Social Hall.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Elex's "Gene· memory to the Tidewell Foundation. Donations can be made online at https://tidewellfoundation.org/donate/.

The Jones Funeral Home, located at 4005 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234, is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information, please contact them at (941) 355-2535.

Elex "Gene" Coleman's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be remembered for his strength, hard work, and dedication to his family. May he rest in peace.

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