Scioto County Commissioner Cathy Coleman has passed away following complications from an automobile accident that happened in May.
Her fellow Commissioner Scottie Powell announced the news, “I write this morning with a heavy heart as we hear about the passing of my friend and colleague Commissioner Cathy Coleman. “Cathy loved this county and this country and she worked tirelessly to make a positive impact, and that she did. I’ll never forget her warmth and kindness to everyone she met. It is no wonder why most of West Portsmouth just called her Nana, because she was always concerned of the needs of others. There is so much I could say, but I’ll leave it with Thank You. Thank you for your service, thank you for your kindness, and thank you for your friendship.
Like a true patriot Cathy waited until the 4th to go home to Heaven. So, while we are looking up at the sky celebrating our freedom, Cathy will have the best seat in the house looking down from eternity celebrating hers. Please keep her family in your prayers at this time.”
The 71-year-old public servant was transported to Columbus for treatment after the tragic crash, which also claimed the life of her beloved pet. Though she initially rallied and was moved out of ICU and later from Grant Medical Center, her condition worsened unexpectedly. As word spread, family and friends asked the community for prayers, and there was a heartfelt outpouring of support and love for Coleman from across Scioto County.
A Life of Service
Cathy Coleman was known as a dedicated public servant and steadfast community leader. Throughout her career, she prided herself on her commitment to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and the well-being of her constituents.
Early Life and Career
Coleman was a lifelong resident of West Portsmouth, Ohio. She worked in financial and office management at Boone Coleman Construction, a family-owned business. Her public service career began with two terms on the Washington-Nile School District Board of Education, where she served as vice president of the board. Her calm demeanor, organizational skills, and deep ties to the community made her a trusted voice in local education.
Commissioner Tenure
Coleman’s path to the Scioto County Commission was shaped by personal loss. After the passing of her husband, Commissioner Doug Coleman, in 2016, she was appointed to fill his seat. She later won re-election and served multiple terms with distinction.
During her tenure, Coleman was a strong advocate for maintaining the county’s fiscal health. She worked to ensure that public funds were managed responsibly and that the county stayed financially solvent. One of her notable contributions was leading efforts to declare May as Community Action Organization Month, recognizing the vital work of agencies serving residents across multiple programs.
She also championed efforts to support Scioto County Children’s Services, backing an expanded tax levy to provide additional funding in response to growing needs. Her advocacy extended to infrastructure, where she pushed for bridge replacements and upgrades to county equipment to improve service delivery.
Challenges and Controversies
Coleman’s years in office included difficult moments. She publicly and firmly rejected accusations that she served merely as a rubber stamp for fellow commissioners. Despite her typically quiet demeanor, she became a vocal and visible figure in addressing a corruption scandal involving the county’s Economic Development Director. Coleman did not shy away from acknowledging missteps during the investigation, reiterating her belief in accountability and ethical governance.
Legacy
Cathy Coleman leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, compassion, and public stewardship. Her unwavering dedication to Scioto County—its people, its services, and its future—was evident in every role she undertook. Whether managing a family business, serving on the school board, or leading from the commissioner’s office, she remained grounded in service and sincerity.
Her passing marks the loss of not just a commissioner, but a deeply loved community figure. Cathy Coleman’s legacy will continue in the programs she supported, the fiscal discipline she upheld, and the lives she touched through her commitment to making Scioto County a better place for all.
