Darlene Louise (Andrews) Coleman

Darlene Andrews Coleman passed away on March 23rd, 2023 after a brief illness. Darlene was surrounded by loving family members and friends when she passed.  Darlene was born to Mary Haywood Grady and Harlan Andrews on June 26, 1947 in High Point, North Carolina and was raised in the Oberlin area of Raleigh, North Carolina. Darlene attended school at Oberlin School in Raleigh, North Carolina and Allen High School for Girls in Asheville, North Carolina. Upon graduation, Darlene enrolled at St. Augustine’s College (now University) where she met and married her husband of 53 years, Lawrence “Peaches” Coleman and studied music education.  

Darlene had a 40 plus year career in education in Wake County Public Schools. Darlene also enjoyed teaching children how to read and shared that gift with all her students. After retirement, she enjoyed teaching music at other schools, and teaching piano from her home.  

Darlene was a committed humanitarian and servant of the Lord. She was a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and Eta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated and served in many capacities. In her later years, Darlene enjoyed volunteering at Loaves and Fishes and teaching English to refugees who were new to America. She devoted much of her life to St. Augustine’s University and loved serving student athletes and celebrating homecoming. Growing up in Oberlin, Darlene was a member of Wilson Temple from an early age, Darlene served the Lord as a Worship chairperson, member of the choir. She formed the children’s choir and was the director of the Chancel choir. Her beautiful voice filled the sanctuary every Sunday and will be greatly missed. 

She was a giver of joy to many people, but her grandchildren gave her the most joy. Darlene loved cooking for her grandchildren, traveling with them and supporting them in all their activities. She was a major source of support and strength for them and her daughters. 

Darlene joins her husband of 53 years, Lawrence Coleman in Heaven. Her mother, Mary Haywood Grady, Her father, Harlan Andrews and her brother, Darrell Andrews also preceded her in death. She is survived by many loving family members, including her daughters, Kimberly (Raleigh) and Stephanie (Raleigh), four grandchildren, Jaalil and wife Brittany (Greensboro), Madinah (Raleigh), Amber (Raleigh) and Gerald (Raleigh) and one great grandson, Jayce. She leaves many in her extended family, including aunts, nephews, cousins and the community to cherish the wonderful legacy and memories she leaves. 

Darlene’s legacy is one of service, love and charity. Her memory will be honored in the ways we serve others to glorify Christ. To honor her memory, consider making donations to Saint Augustine's University Athletic Department: Lawrence Coleman Memorial Golf Tournament. 

The family would love those who wish to share their memories, pictures or leave tributes to do so at the following link so the family can cherish them forever. 

***Her funeral service will be held at 12:30 PM Thursday March 30, 2023 at Wilson Temple United Methodist Church, 1023 Oberlin Road, Raleigh, NC preceded by an 11:30 AM visitation.  Rituals: Ivy Beyond the Wall at 12:00 noon and Eta Phi Beta Soroity, Inc. at 12:20 PM

Those attending the service may park in the parking deck across the street from the church. Masks or face coverings are requested to be worn for the service.

Leave your favorite memories of Darlene for the family to read and remember her below.:

http://www.kudoboard.com/boards/OfdVQ22P

*****Service will be live streamed*****

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