Richard M. Coleman, Sr.

Richard Merion Coleman, Sr. was born on April 9,1946 in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, to the late Dennis Coleman, Jr., and the late Mary Archie Coleman.  He peacefully departed this life on May 9, 2026, at his home in Shelby, Mississippi.

Richard completed his elementary and secondary education in Mound Bayou, Mississippi.  He was a 1965 graduate of John F. Kennedy High School.   Richard attended Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science and Social Studies. He continued his studies at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi receiving a Masters of Education Degree with an emphasis in Public Administration. He remained an active member of the Mississippi Valley State University Alumni Association until his death.

Richard gave his life to Christ at an early age at Union Hill Baptist Church in Shelby, Mississippi and began a lifelong journey of faith and service. He later joined Pleasant Green Missionary Baptist Church, in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, where he faithfully served for more than 60 years.  Richard’s dedication to the church was important and was evident through his willingness to lend a hand in whatever capacity necessary.  He graciously served as a Sunday School teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, and later as a deacon until he departed this life. He was well known for his love of family, church, and community.  He embodied the characteristics of obedience, leadership, and kindness to all. 

Richard started his professional career as a counselor at the Mississippi Department of Corrections in Parchman, Mississippi.  He went on to work at Coahoma Community College as the Student Affairs Manager for nearly a decade.  Richard’s devotion and desire for community improvement were evident through his years of public service.  He was committed to the advancement of Bolivar County for 41 years, first as a member of the Bolivar County School Board for 17 years and later as the District 3 Supervisor for 24 years.  He worked tirelessly to enhance educational opportunities for students in Bolivar County.  As the District 3 Supervisor, Richard pursued efforts to improve infrastructure of the roads and bridges in the county and ensured adequate resources for continued economic development.  It was his desire to make a difference and his privilege to serve the residents of Bolivar County, District 3.

Richard’s entrepreneurial spirit and zest for community improvement were evident in his desire to offer services to the underserved in his community.  He and his late wife owned and operated Mr. Snappy Mart, a convenience store and laundromat, for 24 years.  This business provided a unique atmosphere for experiencing delicious southern cuisine, immediate access to convenience products, safe and modern laundry facilities, and opportunities for community engagement for the residents of Shelby, Mississippi.  Richard steadfastly believed in partnering with the community to improve exposure and economic viability.

Richard generally loved people and never met a stranger.  His family can attest to his endless conversations with neighbors, friends, or family.  One of his past times included community farming and gardening.  He enjoyed cultivating bountiful crops of vegetables that he openly shared with the community.  He also cherished visiting with his grandchildren, public speaking and attending cultural and musical events.

He was joined in Holy Matrimony to the late Sarah L. Matthews on August 3, 1970, and through this union raised five children. Richard was a great and loving husband and an outstanding father, providing a stable and nurturing environment. He was committed to providing a strong infrastructure and opportunities for advancement.  He believed in education and the value of hard work.  Richard encouraged excellence and was a fierce supporter through life’s trials and tribulations.  His love for others was always of great importance and was evident in his relationship with his family and friends.  He was a caring and thoughtful brother, cousin, and friend.  His cheerful and positive spirit touched all who knew him and will forever be missed. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis Coleman, Jr. and Mary Archie Coleman; wife of 45 years, Sarah L. Coleman; brothers,  Major Coleman, Dennis Coleman, Louis Williams, Fred Williams, James Archie, Sidney Archie, Oscar Archie, Clarence Archie, Samuel Archie, Alphonsa Archie, and Leon Hubbard; sisters, Alma Rose Coleman, Ruth Coleman, Mary Lou Coleman, Dorotha Coleman, Fate Hubbard, Lucy Stanton, and Mary Hubbard; son-in- law, Orlando Grady; grandchildren, Lauren Coleman, Justin Dumas, and Dontarius Smith. 

Mr. Coleman leaves to cherish his memory, a devoted friend, Marilyn M. Starks of Cleveland, Mississippi; daughters, Sherrie Smith Grady of Shelby, Mississippi, Marian (William) Harris of Alexandria, Louisiana, and Antoinette (James) Turner of Drew, Mississippi; sons, Dewayne (Cynthia) Hodges of Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Roderick (Robin) Coleman of Madison, Mississippi, Richard M. (Chasity) Coleman, Jr. of Ellisville, Mississippi, and Derrick (Shareta) Coleman of Kosciusko, Mississippi; thirteen grandchildren; six great grandchildren; brothers, Bennie (Marion) Coleman and Benjamin (Shelia) Coleman of Gautier, Mississippi, Harold Hubbard of Horn Lake, Mississippi, Chester Hubbard of Boston, Massachusetts, and Leroy Hubbard of Champaign, Illinois; one sister, Alma (Cornelius) Toole of Mound Bayou, Mississippi.  His memory will forever be treasured by a host of relatives, church family, and friends.