Olivia Coleman
Age - 76
December 8, 2023
Olivia Patricia Jackson Coleman (Pat) was born on June 20, 1947 in Selma, Alabama to the late Henry Barnett Jackson and Lennie Morse Jackson. She was the youngest of two daughters and the little sister to Mae Frances Jackson White. Pat grew up in Tuscaloosa, Alabama during her primary schooling and moved with her family to Queens, New York in 1958. Her family set roots in New York, where Pat attended middle school and later graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in 1965. Pat's magnetic personality created a booming social circle of friends who introduced her to Grace United Methodist Church where they would often go to church and then meet up at the bowling alley. In fact, she influenced her mother to also become a faithful member of the church, where they both attended for many years. Upon graduation from high school, Pat followed in her big sister's footsteps and attended Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. At Fisk, Pat was an active student leader, spending a summer in Spain through a program sponsored by the Experiment in International Living, and joining the Pi Chapter of her beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. It was also during her time at Fisk that she went on a blind date with the man that later became her devoted life partner and husband, Dr. Harry Theodore Coleman Jr. In 1969, Pat graduated from Fisk with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and a minor in French. She went on to complete her graduate studies at Vanderbilt University with a Master of Arts. Pat and Harry were married in 1971 and moved to San Diego, California, where Harry served as a Lieutenant in the Navy. After the birth of their first child, Brian, Pat and Harry relocated to Memphis, Tennessee in 1973 to be closer to family. Their second child, Chandra, was born in 1976. After settling in Memphis, Pat began her long and tenured career in professional education with the Memphis City School System. Her earliest years were spent teaching Spanish at Melrose High School, Colonial Middle School, and Hamilton High School. She spent the latter years of her career teaching Advanced Spanish at White Station High School, where she was highly favored and selected to the Teacher's Who's Who Among America's Teachers. Pat's influence on her students was not limited to her classroom. For many years, she took students on trips to Spanish speaking destinations around the world. She helped to expose her students to the many wonders of the Spanish language, culture and experience. One highlight of her tenure as a Spanish educator was being asked to participate and translate in the annual Memphis in May events when Spanish speaking countries were honored. Pat was involved throughout her life in social and cultural organizations and community outreach programs. In each of her associations, Pat fostered community and fun. She loved working with people and did so at every opportunity. Pat formerly held leadership positions with the Shelby County Dental Auxiliary (President), Pan Tennessee Dental Auxiliary (President) and Jack and Jill of America-Memphis Chapter (President). She was an active member of many notable organizations including, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Beta Epsilon Omega Chapter, Smart Set Social Club and the Memphis Fisk Alumni Association. Pat was a founding member of the Memphis Chapter of Girl Friends, symbolizing dignity, service, graciousness, and conviviality. Pat was also a charter member of the Shelby County (TN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. She dedicated over 35 years of active service to The Links, Incorporated, served as the fourth chapter President and received numerous recognitions for her leadership and service. She was a true Link in the chain of sisterhood and friendship. In addition to her social and civic commitments, Pat was a woman of faith and a dedicated member of Mt. Pisgah C. M. E. Church. For many years she was a faithful member of the church's B. R. Danner Club and dutifully served as Chairperson for the Hospitality Committee. Pat was an eloquent speaker and was often referred to as "Ms. Personality. " She also served as one of the original June Tribe Coordinators, ensuring the June Birthday Club stayed connected with the church and maintained a memorable celebration. Above all, Pat was devoted to her family. She was a wife, mother, daughter, sister and aunt. She treasured her time spent with her family, especially on travels to new and fun destinations. Pat opened her home to her extended family regularly and provided a place of refuge and comfort when needed. Her husband, Harry, preceded her in death. Pat and Harry loved each other for over 50 years, having fun together and making each other laugh. They were true soul mates and best friends who supported and protected each other until the very end. To cherish her memory, she leaves her son, Attorney Brian (Holly) Coleman; daughter, Chandra Coleman; one grandson, Bryce Coleman; three granddaughters, Lauren Coleman, Chloe Harris, and Camryn Harris; and numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues. The family will receive friends Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 3:00pm-5:00pm. Celebration of Life will be Friday December 8, 2023 at 11:00am both will be held at Mt. Pisgah CME Church 2490 Park Ave, Memphis, TN 38114 Interment will be in West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery 4000 Forest Hill Irene Road, Memphis, TN 38125Show more
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