It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Grady Wayne Coleman, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend. Grady Wayne Coleman passed away peacefully on Monday, December 15th, 2025, at the age of 81. Born in Statesboro, Georgia, on March 26th, 1944, Grady lived a life full of kindness and adventure, making his home in Ellabell, Georgia.
Grady's journey through life was marked by his dedication, warmth, and passion for simple joys. He proudly served his country in the United States Army before pursuing a long and fulfilling career as a truck driver for Sentinel Trucking.
A man of varied interests, Grady was never one to pass up a conversation, with the unique ability to talk to anyone. He found pleasure in working on old cars and could often be found perusing garage sales and seeking old discarded bottles, treasures some might overlook. Music resided at the heart of his life; Grady was a talented guitar player who cherished the sounds of Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings.
Grady's love and legacy endure through his family. He is survived by his sons, John Coleman and Bobby Coleman, Of Ellabell; Wayne Coleman residing in Atlanta, and his step-son, Robert Thompson, also of Ellabell. His daughters, Tara Shaffer of Richmond Hill, Tammy Coleman of Guyton, and Anna Jones of Ellabell, will lovingly carry forward his memory. Grady was a cherished grandfather to Olivia Jones, Victoria Coleman, James Coleman, Shawn Coleman, Wyatt Thompson, and Shawna Brown. Grady was preceded in death by his loving parents, Grady Coleman and Ebdell Sapp Coleman, and his devoted wife, Betty Louise Ballard Coleman.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Grady's life at a visitation on Thursday, December 18th, 2025, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Flanders Powell Funeral Home & Crematory in Pembroke, GA. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at 12:00 pm at the same location, with arrangements made through the care of Flanders Powell Funeral Home & Crematory.
Grady Wayne Coleman will be remembered for his generous spirit, his lively conversations, and the fond memories he leaves behind. May he forever rest in peace, surrounded by the melodies he loved and the voices of those he touched.