Thomas Leroy Coffell, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle, left this world on August 21, 2024, at the age of 75. Born on September 16, 1948, in Jacksonville, Florida, he was the youngest of 14 siblings, a testament to the vibrant and loving household that shaped the man he would become. Thomas passed away peacefully in Lawton, Oklahoma, surrounded by the love and warmth of his family.
Thomas’s life was a tapestry woven with the threads of devotion, hard work, and an unyielding passion for the simple pleasures of life. He was a loving son to his late parents, Ernest Edward Coffell and Viola Virginia (Randall) Coffell. His life was enriched and blessed by his loving wife, Rebecca Sue Coffell, and their children: sons Thomas Lee, John Kelver (Justine), James Dowlen (Laura), all of Oklahoma, and daughter Truely Dawn Morrison (Tim) of Florida. Thomas was a beacon of strength and love for his family and a doting grandfather to Mark Andrew, Adam Lynn, Lexie Marguerite, Corey William Burgos, Keri Marie Brock, and Brandon Thomas Burgos. His joy was further multiplied by his great-granddaughter, Alamea Michelle of Florida.
Though he departed from this world, Thomas leaves behind his cherished brother Donald Coffell and sister Paulette Hause, both of Oklahoma. His life was a testament to resilience and love, as he was preceded in death by his parents and ten siblings, whose memories he held close to his heart.
With a strong sense of duty and service, Thomas was drafted into the Army, where he served his country with honor until he was honorably discharged. His post-military life saw him excel as a painting supervisor at Cameron University, where his dedication and attention to detail were evident in every stroke of the brush.
Thomas’s education may have culminated in the 9th grade, but his wisdom and understanding of life’s intricacies far exceeded traditional learning. He was a man who truly lived by his motto to “stop and smell the roses,” a sentiment echoed by the words of philosopher Socrates, “Beware the barrenness of a busy life.” Thomas knew the value of pausing to appreciate the world around him, whether it was through the joy of fishing or the countless moments of laughter and love shared with his extensive network of nieces and nephews.
Described by those who knew him best as loving, selfless, and generous, Thomas’s spirit of giving knew no bounds. He enriched the lives of everyone he met, not through material gifts, but through the treasure of his presence, the warmth of his smile, and the sincerity of his actions. As we bid farewell to a man whose life was a lesson in love and generosity, we take comfort in knowing that Thomas Leroy Coffell’s legacy will continue to flourish in the hearts of those he touched. His was a life well-lived, full of the joy of simple things, the strength of family bonds, and the beauty of a life dedicated to the well-being of others.
Thomas’s life story is one of unwavering love and the gentle power of a life lived with intention. As we remember him, we find solace in the knowledge that his journey was marked by the joy he found in every moment and the love he so freely gave. Though we mourn his passing, we celebrate the remarkable man he was and the indelible mark he has left on our lives. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date.
