of Lamar, AR

November 14, 1954 - February 10, 2026

On February 10, 2026, at the age of 71, Verlin Howard Coleman, Jr., of Lamar, entered eternal life surrounded by the love of his family. Verlin will be deeply missed for the joy, laughter, and kindness he shared so freely with everyone who knew him. His presence had a way of filling a room, and his stories and humor left lasting impressions on friends, family, and all whose paths he crossed.

Verlin was born November 14, 1954, in Pasadena, California, to Verlin Howard Coleman, Sr. and Judith Runyon Coleman. As the oldest of four children, he naturally stepped into a role of leadership and care that followed him throughout his life. During his childhood, Verlin lived in several places around the world with his family as they shared the gospel, an experience that shaped his worldview and faith. He later graduated from Woodstock High School in India, carrying with him a lifetime of unique experiences and stories from his years abroad.

Verlin met the love of his life, Sandy, and together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. They were blessed with four children, and Verlin took great pride in being a devoted husband and father. His strong work ethic was evident throughout his career, including more than 20 years as a supervisor at Tyson, as well as time spent in real estate. Never one to stop learning, Verlin later pursued college courses to become a mechanic... a path that perfectly matched his lifelong passion for cars. He especially enjoyed attending car shows close to home, often sharing those moments with his family.

A faithful and active member of Second Baptist Church, Verlin's life reflected his deep commitment to his beliefs and his community. He was known for his quick wit and love of a good joke... particularly when he was the one delivering the punchline. To his grandchildren, he was lovingly known as ''Pretty Papa,'' a nickname that reflected both his playful spirit and his affection for his many grandkids. Pink became his favorite color, worn proudly with a smile.

Verlin's life was marked by faith, hard work, and a joyful sense of humor that never left him. He had many passions, his love for his family most of all, though those who knew him well might say his devotion to the Dallas Cowboys came in a very close second, a rivalry he defended with good humor and unwavering loyalty. Before returning to college to become a mechanic, Verlin spent time truck driving, a role that perfectly suited his independent spirit and love of the open road. Whether behind the wheel, under the hood of a car, or surrounded by family and friends, Verlin lived fully and intentionally. His legacy of laughter, perseverance, and love will continue through the lives he touched and the memories that will be shared for generations to come.

Verlin was preceded in death by his daughter Ranella Faye Coleman, his parents Verlin and Judy Coleman, his brothers Lane and Tom Coleman, and his sister-in-law, Suzanne Walker (Steve).

He leaves his wife of 50 years, Sandy Coleman, his 3 children, Lyle Coleman (Jesy), Bethanie Franco (Nicolas), Clinton Coleman (Sarah). His 10 grandchildren, Morgan ''Motay'' Sexton (Luke), Ashlynn Goodin (Slade), Sofia Franco (Michael), Alexandra ''Ali'' Track (Cade), Leiklynn McGlone (Isaiah), Isabel ''Izzy'' Franco (Francisco), Kirklynn Foster (Joey), Rayleigh Coleman, Jedidyah ''Lane'' Coleman, Hendrix ''Jimmy'' Coleman. His 11 great grandchildren. His sister Beckie Loe (Robert), his sister-in-laws Starlett Wilson, Teri Loghry (Scott), his brother-in-law Samual Henderson (Belinda) and so many treasured nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.

Visitation will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, February 16, 2026, at Second Baptist Church. Memorial Service will be 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 16, 2026, at Second Baptist Church in Clarksville.

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