COLEMAN, JOHN HOWARD (AGE 87) of BRYANS ROAD, MD

John Howard Coleman entered into eternal rest on Saturday, November 26, 2016 at The Veterans Hospital, Community Living Center, Washington, D.C.

John was born to Pome Roy and Jane Coleman, November 1, 1929. He spent most of his childhood in the town of Dimebox, Texas.

John enjoyed a full and vibrant life which he shared with his wife of 66 years, Alma Beatrice Darrett Coleman. Married December 18, 1950 in Alice, Texas. Together they traveled the world as a military family of the United States Air Force. John enlisted in the Armed Forces in 1951, serving two years in the United States Army, then joining the United States Air Force.

In 1959, while stationed in Saudi Arabia (TDY), he explored the Holy Lands in its entirety. He shared photographs and stories of his adventures with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren about visiting the places where Jesus walked. He was extremely proud when his daughter, Mia, made the same pilgrimage.

In 1960 John received orders to travel to Tokyo, Japan. He was adventurous and enjoyed riding his motorcycle, playing golf, and embraced the Japanese culture and lifestyle. Upon leaving Japan, John had the opportunity to travel to Europe. He was stationed in Ramstein, Germany where he was instrumental in building a computer database which linked strategic air commands communication throughout Europe. Mrs. Coleman introduced John to the game of golf. While in Germany, his passion for the game grew and he played competitive golf winning quite a few tournaments. John shared his passion for golf with his son Clarence. John's instruction was always "hit it straight and keep the ball on the short grass."

John loved to teach golf. He became a certified golf instructor by the United States Golf Teacher Federation (US GTF). He taught young and old, the only requirement was the love of the game. John became a volunteer instructor for The First Tee organization in Washington, D.C.

John was reassigned to the Pentagon and began a life in Bryans Road, Maryland. He retired from military service February 1, 1979, giving of himself to his country for 27 years.

He became a devoted member of Metropolitan United Methodist Church in Indian Head, Maryland for well over 30 years. John truly loved his church and was very active with the United Methodist Men (UMM), Finance Committee. He had a passion to serve, and serve proudly. John was active in the community as well. He was advocate on behalf of the homeless and elderly. He was a champion for "Christmas in April" for many years.

John volunteered and eventually became President of the Charles County Chapter of the National organization Project CARE (Community Action to Reach the Elderly). This effort assists the elderly who, otherwise, have no means of transportation to get prescriptions, medical treatments or get to medical appointments. When interviewed by the Maryland Independent newspaper in 1995, John said "the reason I do this is simple, to give back. When I was recovering from quadruple heart bypass surgery, I remember the nurse staying beyond her shift to care for me so I would not get pneumonia. I thought that God put me here for a reason, to do some of what needs to be done in this world."

John was a member of the American Legion, Randolph Furey, Post 170 in Indian Head, Maryland, serving in the capacity of Chaplain for a time. Throughout his life John often served in his community in a capacity that would bring about the greater good for others. John's passion and drive to serve was instilled in his children, especially his daughter, La Dessa, who serves in her community today.

To cherish his fond memories, he leaves his loving and devoted wife of 66 years, Alma; his children, Clarence, La Dessa, and Delanisha Mia. He loved them as his own, a daughter-in-law Cheryl Lynn Coleman and son-in-law Anthony (Tony) Spencer Gray, Jr. He saw his grandchildren grow into young adulthood, James Anthony Mason, Ciera Green, Josiah Alexander Barrington and Aliyjah Symone Coleman. His great-grandchildren were the apples of his eye, Anthony (TJ) Spencer III, Ania Shauntice and Allana Simone Gray. He was also blessed with a great-great grandson, Anthony (AJ) Spencer, IV.

Preceding him were his parents Pome Roy and Jane Coleman, Texas, siblings L.L., Emeline, Nellie, Pome Roy, Jr., R.W., Mary Eliza, Louvenia, Janie Lee, C.W., and Sallie B. John is survived by his brother Earl and two sisters Thelma and Eunice Marie. His life is celebrated by a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives, many friends, both near and far and his Metropolitan Church Family.

Viewing from 10:30am until time of Service 12:00 noon on Monday, December 5, 2016 at Metropolitan United Methodist Church, 3385 Metropolitan Church Road, Indian Head, MD 20640. Interment Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD.

Arrangements Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., Indian Head, MD.