Mary Magdalene Houston Coleman

 In Loving Memory of Mary Magdalene Houston Coleman

Mary Magdalene Houston Coleman, a loving mother, grandmother and friend, departed this life on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at the age of 96.

She was born February 28, 1927, in Morristown, TN. She was the daughter of George Dayne and Cordie Bell (Shelton) Houston. She grew up on 2nd South Street in the community known as Rheatown and was known for her warm heart, unwavering kindness, flowers and pound cake! Mary's life was a testament to the values of love, compassion, and resilience.

Mary was a Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and a lifelong educator who instilled that love of learning in her children and grandchildren. She attended Judson S. Hill School, Morristown College High School, Morristown Jr. College; Albany State College in Albany, GA, where she graduated at the top of her class when she received her Bachelor’s in Education, and Union College in Barbourville, KY, where she received her Master’s in Education. She began teaching in a one-room schoolhouse in Telfair County, GA, in 1947, and returned to Morristown in 1955 and began teaching at Miller Boyd School. She then went to Southern Heights and, finally, to John Hay Elementary School where she taught first grade from the day it opened in 1968 until she retired in 1987. Even after retiring, she went on to teach in the Hamblen County Adult Basic Education.

Mary married Abron Wells in 1948, and they had one daughter, JoVita Darlene. In 1962, she married the love of her life, Christopher P. “Rat” Coleman, Jr., and together, they also had a daughter, Kristi Bonita. They had a loving bond that lasted until the day Rat died. Mary was devoted to her children, but anyone who knew her knows she ADORED her grandchildren, Christopher Wells Bradshaw and Eden Alandra Alcala. She was a woman who cherished her family, was true to her faith, and worked hard her entire life to give her family the things she never had. She was a pillar of strength and a constant source of support, always putting her family's needs above her own.

Mary was a devoted member of Young’s Temple AME Zion Church, and her faith never wavered. Her church family was considered just that - family. She was a guiding light to all and was always there to help anyone who needed her.

 Mary had a wonderful sense of humor. Her laughter was contagious, and her smile could brighten your worst day. She is survived by her loving family, including her children JoVita and Kristi; grandchildren, Christopher and Eden, sister Barbara (Walter, Sr.) Evans, devoted great-nephew, John “Jody” Kyle, Jr.; niece-in-law and wonderful caregiver, Chris Kyle; and host of relatives and friends who were touched by her love and grace. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those she touched. Her legacy of love, kindness, and faith will continue to inspire us all.

A memorial service to celebrate Mary's life will be held at Dockery-Senter Funeral Home on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. The family will receive friends from 12:00-1:00, and the funeral will follow at 1:00. She will be buried immediately after the service at Hamblen Memory Gardens.

Mary Magdalene Houston Coleman will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her spirit will continue to shine in the lives of those who were fortunate to know her. May she rest in eternal peace.

"Those we love don't go away; They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard but always near; Still loved, still missed, and very dear."