Merle J. Coleman

“SelaV”, “That’s Life” -Merle Coleman

Merle Jeanette Coleman (nee Drake) passed away January 13, 2025 in Libertyville, Illinois. She was born January 20, 1942 in North Chicago, Illinois to parents Eleanor and Benjamin Drake.

Merle graduated from North Chicago High School in 1960 and met her loving husband, Delbert L. Coleman Sr., whom she married August 20, 1960. Together they had five children. Merle gave her life to the Lord at a young age and was a member of Trinity Christian Center in Zion, under the ministry of Pastor Tim Eddy.

Merle worked at Abbott Labs, Fansteel, and Baxter before working at Zion Benton Township Highschool in the Deans office. She worked at Zion Benton for many years before retiring. During that time she became the 2nd mother to many students. Whenever a student found themselves in trouble or needed someone to talk to, they knew they could count on Mrs. Coleman. She would listen, offer wisdom, and be their voice of reason. After retiring from Zion Benton, she started Mrs. Coleman’s Daycare where she looked after infants and children up to age five, along with after school kids.

She was a woman of faith, she would read her Bible every morning before starting her day; she always said it sets the tone for her day. She was known for her amazing spirit, gentleness, and big heart for everyone around her. There was nothing she wouldn’t have done if you needed help.

Merle was very passionate about her family. She was known by many names including, “GMA”, Grammy, Grandma Merly, and Aunt Merle. She loved her family very much. She dedicated her life to helping others, often volunteering for multiple food pantries. Merle was a dedicated and devoted wife, mother, aunt, cousin, and friend. She was the matriarch of her family and her greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren.

She also enjoyed listening to gospel music, crochet, sewing, playing solitaire, reading, watching mystery and plant shows, baking desserts, and gardening. Her favorite flower being the Stargazer Lily. She recently also found interest in ordering from Temu and passing her good finds on to others.

Merle is survived by her children, Damaris (Mark) Hill, Derrick (Claire) Coleman, Patrick Coleman, and Tamala Rae (Zeus) McKinney; grandchildren, Davon (Vashnie) Coleman, Deborah (Brent) Shields, Veronica Hill, Kaiden Hill, Daniel Coleman, Derrick Coleman Jr., Stephanie (Walter) Rountree, Deshawn Coleman, Justin Mckinney, Tyler McKinney, and Isaiah McKinney; 17 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Dorothy Drake; brother-in-law, Willard Brown; many cherished nieces and nephews; and special life-long friends, Katie Franklin, Lenora Cole, Jack Cole, and Eva Ledet; adored dog and companion, Bentley.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Delbert Coleman Sr.; son, Delbert Coleman Jr.; parents, Eleanor and Benjamin Drake; siblings, Fred (Patricia) Freeman Jr., James Freeman Sr., Betty Hill (Stokes), Shirlee (Willie) Myles, Benjamin Drake Sr., Sarah Lynn (Eddie) Shaw, and Jerry Drake; in-laws, Artie Coleman and Helen Hurd; and sister-in-law, Teresa White.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has reached out, called, sent a text, and shown support to their family. A special thank you to Herb and Diane Earls who were so involved in Merle’s life, she loved sharing times with you.

Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant! I have fought the good fight. I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not only to me, but unto all them also that love his appearing. -2 Timothy 4:7-8

A visitation will be held Saturday, January 25, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Congdon Funeral Home 3012 Sheridan Road Zion, Illinois 60099, followed by a funeral service at 6:00 p.m. ; pastor Tim Eddy officiating.