Gerald 'Jerry'
Coleman, 89
DOVER - Gerald "Jerry" Coleman passed away Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at home surrounded by his family.
Jerry was born March 26, 1931 in Brooklyn, New York to the late Thomas Coleman and Mary Diamond Coleman. He graduated from St. Francis Preparatory School in January 1949 and enlisted in the United States Air Force in May of 1949.
Jerry began his USAF career in Europe as a linguist, speaking several languages including Russian, and German. He finished his career doing what he loved, flying. As a Loadmaster, he flew on many types of cargo aircraft travelling all over the world. He completed several tours of duty flying combat missions during the Vietnam War. MSGT Coleman was very proud of being a veteran, and especially of his service in Viet Nam. He often remembered and spoke of his service brothers that did not make it home. He retired with 27 years of service as MSGT. If you didn't know Jerry personally, you might remember seeing him around town wearing his "Viet Nam Vet" ball cap and American Flag leather jacket!
After his military career he worked in Saudi Arabia for Lockheed-Martin for 12 years. Jerry obtained his private pilot's license, owned his own aircraft, and was a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. Jerry enjoyed hunting and for many years served as a hunter education and firearms safety instructor for the state of Delaware. His passions were flying, hunting, motorcycle riding, and going on road trips.
In addition to his parents; he was preceded in death by his son, Stephen Coleman; and brothers, Thomas and Roger Coleman.
He is survived by his former wife and lifelong friend, Edna Boisselle of Camden; and their children, Deenie Aiken and her husband Paul of Felton, Pie Hahn and her husband Reynold of Camden, Gary Coleman and his wife Jill of Magnolia, Michael Coleman, and Theresa Saari both of Camden, and Robert Coleman and his wife Jean of Rosanky, Texas; grandchildren, Jeremy, Destiny, Jason, Meghan, Brittani, Christopher, Kelley, Michael, Paul, Holly, Stephen, Mason, Connor and Emma; 16 great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.
A memorial service will be held on January, 28, 2021 at Torbert's Funeral Chapel, 1145 E. Lebanon Rd., Dover, DE 19901 with visitation beginning at 1 p.m., followed by a memorial at 2 p.m.
Graveside services will be held at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to your favorite charity.
Letters of condolence may be sent and guestbook signed at
www.torbertfuneral.comJerry/Dad/Pop, you will be missed more than you ever imagined…
