Carl Edward Coleman

Carl Edward Coleman, affectionately known as Ed or “Papa Ed,” peacefully went to be with his Lord, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the age of 71, after a courageous battle with esophageal cancer. Visitation will be held at Dryer Funeral Home on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 5:00 to 9:00 PM and on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 2:00 to 9:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will take place at Holly Calvary Church, located at 15010 North Holly Rd., Holly, Michigan, on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 11:00 AM, followed by a luncheon. A lifelong resident of Holly, Michigan, Ed was born on May 22, 1954, in Gastonia, North Carolina, to Carl Coleman and Nancy (“Gladys”) Coleman. Ed was a proud graduate of Holly High School, Class of 1972, and dedicated over 53 years to his business, Coleman & Sons Garage, which he owned and operated with passion. He was not only a successful businessman but also an active member of the Holly community, including Christmas in Action, and a parishioner at Holly Calvary Church. Ed was a giving member of the community, making generous contributions to various organizations, including the Holly Dickens Festival, the Fourth of July Fireworks, Holly Schools’ Project Graduation, and Wednesday Night Car Shows, to name a few. Ed cherished his time spent outdoors, enjoying activities such as e-biking, kayaking, hiking, snowmobiling, motorcycling, and dirtbiking with his beloved wife, Debra Coleman. Together, they traveled extensively across the United States, creating lasting memories with family and friends. Ed loved gatherings with family and friends, equipping others, solving problems, and had a heart for serving others. He is survived by his loving wife, Debra Coleman, and children: daughter Nicole Coleman (Scott Wawrzyniak) of Gregory, Michigan, and stepchildren Lisa (Nathan) Taylor of Clio, Michigan; Derek (Wendy) Hillman of Clarkston, Michigan; and Nicole (Randy) Foor of Fenton, Michigan. Ed was a proud grandfather to Chloee (David) Asebiode, Derek Jr. (Katie) Hillman, Kirsten Foor, Anna Hillman, Alaina Taylor, Randie Foor, Addison Taylor, Rashontae (Ben) Patton, Elizabeth Wawrzyniak, Thomas Wawrzyniak, Anna Thomas, and Jenna Thomas. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren: Evelynn Hillman, Mason Patton, Shiloh Asebiode, and Zayden Hillman. Ed is survived by his siblings, Dr. Steven Coleman (Heather Upchurch) and Nancy (Greg) Schroth. He was predeceased by his parents, Carl Coleman and Nancy (“Gladys”) Coleman. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Holly Calvary Church or LifeWise Academy of Holly (https://lifewise.org/giftthankyou/ or make a check payable to LifeWise Academy and mail it to: L-4327 Columbus, OH 43260-4327, include in memo Holly Schools 48442). Ed will be remembered for his infectious spirit, love for his “Ed” adventures, and the profound impact he had on the lives of those around him. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Carl Edward Coleman

May 22, 1954 - October 30, 2025