William John Coleman

William John Coleman of New City, 78, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2020. An exceptional father, husband, grandfather, brother, son, friend, he was born in the Bronx on May 24, 1942 to Harold and Mary Carney. He was predeceased by his wife, Mary Jane, whom he was married for nearly 39 years and his daughter Kerriann Cohen (Mark) of Clifton Park. He is the devoted father of five children: Kristine Lyons (Bob) of New City, Billy (Christine) of Blauvelt, Danny of New City and Doreen Moran (Efren) of Piermont. He also leaves 8 beloved grandchildren, Danny, Keira and William Cohen, Lauryn Lyons, Emily Moran, Liam, Tommy and Caroline Coleman. Always foremost were his five children. In addition to the children he loved and his devoted wife, Bill is survived by his brother Jerry and his loving wife Gerry of Mt Kisco. He also leaves behind his dear niece Erin Coleman of Los Angeles.

Bill, known to his family as Papa, was the consummate gentleman and gentle man. He was the perfect father and grandfather, always thinking three steps ahead about what was best for his family. After serving 20 years and retiring in 2000 from the NYPD at rank of Sergeant, he went on to become Director of Security at Manhattan College, where he spent an addition 17 years. Bill spent his time attending his grandchildren’s many activities. His fierce love, loyalty, kindness and humor will be missed by his family and friends.

The family will receive friends and celebrate Bill’s life on Wednesday from 5 to 9 pm at Higgins Funeral Home in New City (Covid practices will be enforced). A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am on Thursday at St. Francis of Assisi in West Nyack, with burial to follow in St. Anthony's Cemetery in Nanuet. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's memory to the National Shrine of St. Jude, 205 West Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60606. MICHAEL J. HIGGINS FUNERAL HOME 321 S. Main Street New City (845)634-6110