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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles L. Coleman, a devoted family man and respected community member, who left us on May 4, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on September 20, 1936, in Waverly, to his parents Dewey D. and Dorothy (Cordray) Coleman, Charles made his home in Camby, where he touched the lives of many through his work and community involvement. He married the late Shirley A. (Jones) Coleman on April 27, 1955.
A proud veteran, Charles served in the United States Air Force from June 28, 1954, until his discharge on December 6, 1957, attaining the rank of Airman First Class. After his military service, he embarked on a fulfilling career as an Assessor for Decatur Township, dedicating 26 years to the role before retiring in 2005. His career included earlier work as a truck driver for Crescent Paper in Indianapolis and as a Railroad Inspector for the Public Service Commission, all while demonstrating a remarkable commitment to community service.
Charles's leadership skills shone brightly throughout his life. He held numerous positions, including Past President of the Decatur Central Lions Club, President of the Decatur Township Civic Council, and Vice President of the Indiana Assessors Association. Moreover, he was an active member of the West Newton Masonic Lodge #707, the Marion County Assessors Association, and the Decatur Township Republican Club, serving as a Committeeman for 40 years. His contributions to these organizations reflect his deep commitment to serving others and enhancing his community.
Those who knew Charles will remember him not only as a dedicated worker but also as a passionate individual who loved life. He found great joy in riding horses and cherished moments spent at the Piney in Missouri with his close friends, the "wild bunch". He adored traveling, visiting Florida, going on cruises, and, most importantly, spending quality time with his family.
Charles is lovingly survived by his two children, Dennis Coleman and Sherri McElroy, both of Indianapolis; along with three grandchildren, Sarah Gardner, Michelle McElroy, and Tiffany Polley, and two great-grandchildren. His legacy of love and dedication will continue to shine through the lives he touched.
Charles is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley A. Coleman, as well as two sons, Douglas L. Coleman and Donald Coleman, and six siblings-four brothers and two sisters; George, John, William and Donald Coleman and Irene Coleman and Flo Tague-who have gone before him.
A life well-lived will be honored with a series of services. On Friday, May 8, 2026, family and friends will gather for a public visitation at Jones Family Funeral and Cremation Service, beginning at 12:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will commence at 1:00 p.m., leading to the graveside service at Fairfield Friends Cemetery in Camby, where he will be laid to rest.
In this time of sorrow, we invite everyone whose life was touched by Charles to celebrate his life and the profound impact he had on all of us. He will be dearly missed but fondly remembered. May he rest in peace.
To send a condolence to the family or to share a story about Charles, please visit: www.jonesfamilymortuary.com
Jones Family Funeral and Cremation Service
Jones Family Funeral and Cremation Service
Fairfield Friends Cemetery
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