William R. Coleman
January 1, 1929 – November 9, 2024
Former longtime Portsmouth resident (currently Venice, FL)
FC Daehler Mortuary
It is with deep sorrow and much love the family of William R. Coleman of Venice, Florida, announce his passing on November 9, 2024 at the age of 95.
William will be lovingly remembered by his children, Laura (Cassel) and Timothy; grandchildren , Ashley (Smith), Alyson (Greig) , Jenna Coleman and Myra Coleman; great-grandchildren, Andrew, Daniel and Caroline (Smith) and Emiliana (Greig) and his nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife (Zelma Edwards Coleman) of 55 years, and his parents Edwin(Choppie) and Virginia Coleman of Portsmouth. William was born and raised in Portsmouth where he earned his Eagle Scout award with three palms. He attended The University of Kentucky where he studied Mechanical Engineering and was a member of the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity. He was in the U.S. Naval Reserve, a musician and orchestra leader and active in the Portsmouth Jaycees in many varied positions including President. He served on numerous other community projects as chairman, and was a Mason for the past 76 years. He was named an Outstanding Young Man of America in 1965.
William began his career with the AEP system as an engineer’s assistant in Ohio Power Company’s Transmission and Distribution Department. He continued his career in numerous positions. He was instrumental in the development of the first total electric public housing high-rise apartment building in the country and the first all electric school in Ohio. In 1985 he spent time in Pakistan working for AEP Energy Services. He was involved in helping Pakistan develop a customer contact program to promote conservation and load management. William was transferred to the New York offices for AEP where he was named Managing Director of Marketing and Customer Service in 1988. He retired in 1994 and moved to Venice, Florida full time a few years later. He was active in his church and continued volunteering in community service. He was an avid photographer and golfer during retirement. He enjoyed travel and made a trip around the world. Other trips included visiting the Holy Land, Europe and Asia and throughout both North and South America.
Graveside services will be held Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 10:00 AM, at Memorial Burial Park in Wheelersburg.
Please visit www.fcdaehlermortuary.com to leave a special memory of William or condolences for his family.