Carolyn Griffin Coleman passed away peacefully on December 8, 2022 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 14, 1938 in Pensacola, FL to Chester and Nellie Griffin. She graduated from Pensacola High School and Florida State University receiving a degree in English. She was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority and served as chapter president. She returned to Pensacola to teach English at Escambia High School where she met her husband, Dr. John Coleman, while he was training to be a US Naval Flight Surgeon. They married on June 22, 1963 and enjoyed 53 years of loving marriage until his death in 2016. Dr. and Mrs. Coleman settled in Winter Park, where they raised their four daughters. Carolyn was an active member of the community and All Saints Episcopal Church. She volunteered in many organizations through the years including Junior Service League and PTA serving as president of both. At All Saints, she served in many leadership capacities as a volunteer and later as a staff member including Sunday school teacher, children's ministry leader, children's choir director, one of the founders of mother's morning out program and youth Wildlife program, chalice minister, sub deacon, member of the vestry, membership coordinator, and long range planning/building coordinator. She especially loved the stained glass windows in the sanctuary and taught many about the history and special meaning of each one. If there was a need, she was always willing to step in, lead, and coordinate efforts.
One of Carolyn's greatest strengths was her gift of hospitality. Anyone and everyone was always welcome for a meal, a listening ear, or a celebration. She was happy to host a gathering, no matter the size. Nothing gave her more joy than being surrounded by her entire family- her four girls, their husbands and her 8 grandchildren who lovingly referred to her as Gran. She had a strong faith and a zest for life that drew people in and made them feel instantly comfortable and accepted.
Carolyn is preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, and her two sisters Van Holt and Lu Davis. She is survived by her four daughters and their families- Courtney Leggett (Mark), Dabney Albritton (John), Nell Flynt (John), and Polly Little (Rob) and grandchildren- Coleman Leggett (Betsy), Mary Page James (Jordan), Jack Albritton (Mary Elizabeth), Carolyn Albritton, Parks Flynt, Dabney Flynt, Katherine Little and Laura Little. A memorial service will be held at All Saints Church in Winter Park on Friday, December 30, 2022 at 11 am. A reception will follow at The Woman’s Club of Winter Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to All Saints Church 338 E Lyman Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789.
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