Mattie Coleman

Mattie  Thelma Coleman was born on March 3, 1935, in Troy, Alabama to the union of the late  Willie Claude and Mattie Mae  Sanders.  On February 22, 2021, God commissioned His heavenly host of angels to escort his child home. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.  For her flower was fading with petals floating down, but God knew the perfect time to gather flowers from the ground. For there is a heavenly garden in which God takes great pleasure. 

The greatest joy of her life, was her son, Willie Fred Sanders.  Affectionately known as “Freddie” brought joy to her and his dad, James Coleman.  They saw to it that Freddie went to high school and on to college, got an education.  James often told him, “you get good grades and I will pay for your college tuition.”  And Freddie did, he made both of his parents especially proud of him.  After he finished school and off to start his life, Mama still cooked for him and made sure he had plenty of food for weeks to take back home with him. The numerous football games they would watch together, will be forever cherished.  Freddie was her pride and joy.  

“Thelma” as she was affectionately called was the second oldest of ten siblings.  She attended Alabama Public Schools.  In the late 50’s she moved to Hamilton, Ohio.  Later on in life she united with New Hope Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. John Patton.  She was very active and supportive, participated in all church activities/events, from the choir to the kitchen, and wherever needed she went.  No boundaries.  She attended Bible Study, Sunday School and sang in the choir.  Always cooking dinners, cakes, and pies for special church occasions.  “Betty Crocker” ain’t got nothing on Thelma Coleman.

Thelma and her husband, James owned and operated Coleman’s Grocery Store in the late 60’s on the corner of Central Avenue and Long Street.  During the later years they purchased a farm in West

 Elkton, Ohio.  She enjoyed planting every year a vegetable garden, which she shared fresh vegetable with her family and friends. Also, she enjoyed working in her beautiful flower garden.  “You couldn’t live on Grant Circle and keep an unkept yard, she’d be on you in a hurry.” A reflection on the neighborhood!  

She also, worked for Dr. and Mrs. Paul Kuenzig for over thirty years.  Every special occasion at their home, there was a seat for Thelma.  When Dr. Kuenzig retired, she retired.  But she continued to work in the church.  She loved the Lord and wanted to serve him while she had the opportunity to do so. She had a special gift of helping people, feeding the hungry, speaking a kind word, willing to help anyone...heart of gold...Grant Circle will not be the same.

Thelma was preceded in death by: her parents, Willie Claude and Mattie Mae Sanders; her siblings, R.C. Sanders, Richard Sanders, Willie Claude Sanders, J.D. Sanders, Sarah Coleman, Dottie Sanders and Jerri Gorce. 

She leaves to cherish her loving memory, one son, Willie Fred Sanders of Indianapolis, Indiana; two sisters, Vurdia Beaman of Barberton, Ohio and Minnie Miller of Springville, Alabama; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

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