William Coleman Jr.

William Wallace Coleman, Jr., known affectionately as "Sonny," peacefully passed away at his home in Queens, New York, on Monday, September 25, 2023. William was one of seven children born to the late William and Hixie Coleman. His life began in Gadsden, Alabama, where he received his elementary education and graduated from Carver High School.

Armed with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Alabama A&M University, William began his professional journey in New York. He met the love of his life, Bernita Pettus, during their tenure at Hillcrest, an upstate New York facility dedicated to troubled children. Their union lasted a remarkable 48 years - until the day that Bernita passed away.

William’s professional legacy was marked by his exceptional passion for teaching mathematics and his deep care for students. He served as a middle school math teacher in the New York City public school system in the Bronx for over thirty years up until his well-deserved retirement.

William was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bernita. Additionally, his parents (William and Hixie Coleman) and four brothers (Samuel Freeman, Charles Coleman, Frank Coleman and Joseph Coleman) are close family members who passed away before he did.

Left to cherish his memory are his loved sons, Kevin and Reginald, along with their wives, Olivia and Kimberly. His legacy continues through his four treasured grandchildren: Michael, Sean, Alexandre, and Kaila. “Sonny” also leaves behind two caring siblings, Doris Young of the Bronx, New York, and Shirley Hensford of Queens, New York. In addition, many more family members (both biological and spiritual) and friends will forever hold his memory dear.

A visitation for William will be held Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at R. Stutzmann & Son, 224 39 Jamaica Ave, Queens Village, NY 11428. A funeral service will occur Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, 224 39 Jamaica Ave, Queens Village, NY 11428. A burial will occur Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Pinelawn Memorial Park, 2030 Wellwood Avenue, Farmingdale, NY 11735.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.rstutzmannandsonfuneralhome.com for the Coleman family.